NYC Mayor Bloomberg ordered evacuation of all hospitals and nursing homes in low-lying areas as of 8AM yesterday due to the oncoming hurricane. It's a good opportunity to consider whether you've asked the director of the nursing home or assisted living facility where your parent is about the facility's plans in case of an emergency. Emergency planning is critical because most frail elders are not going to be able to get very far on their own.

Is the facility located in a flood zone? Are there back-up generators in place? How many hours can they run? who is identified as essential personnel? When was the last time an evacuation drill happened? Has another one been scheduled? If residents need to be evacuated, where do they go? Can you get a copy of the written plan? These and other questions are essential to making sure your elders get the best care.