Senior Survival Oct23

Senior Survival

In the aftermath of Hurricane’s Maria’s devastating impact on Puerto Rico, residents and staff at three senior living communities continue to face challenges, and find new sources of strength. A Yardi client in Puerto Rico shares their story. As Category 4 Maria hurtled towards Puerto Rico, three Insignia Senior Living communities initiated their disaster plan and began communicating with residents and family members. By the time the storm made landfall on September 20, its unprecedented strength meant even the best-laid plans called for some improvisation and cooperation on behalf of residents and staff. “No amount of preparation could have helped us anticipate all the challenges that we have been facing,” says Insignia Senior Living CEO Milton L. Cruz. “We have had to make a lot of adjustments to our plans, always using our best judgment.” A Continuing Crisis Though Hurricane Maria’s reign of terror ended weeks ago, the residents of Puerto Rico are still dealing with the aftermath of the storm’s impact. Over 80 percent of the island is still without power, and according to FEMA, residents are currently coping with low medicine supplies and a daily shortfall of 1.8 million meals. For Cruz and the residents who depend on him, the continuing crisis in Puerto Rico – especially the lack of dependable power – poses life-threatening risks. “While Hurricane Maria made landfall weeks ago, we are still facing the aftermath today as strongly as we did the day after the storm,” he says. “This isn’t over, and it will take months, if not years, to rebuild the island.” “This was a truly catastrophic event, and we will need a lot of help and support from our fellow US citizens.” Staff Saves the Day Though the precautions and protocols established by Insignia’s Puerto Rico...