It always starts with that call or text—“There’s water in the living room!” Suddenly, you’re juggling panic and questions. Is everyone safe? How bad is it? Where’s that old mop, anyway? Even if you’ve never dealt with a flood before, just thinking about your parent or grandparent wading around in slippers is enough to make your stomach twist. But don’t panic just yet. Here’s how to tackle it, step by step—with your loved one’s safety and comfort right up front.
First Things First: Don’t Rush In
Honestly, your gut might tell you to hop in your car and see the damage for yourself. But before you do, check that your loved one is safe—no water near electrical cords, no risk of slipping. Ask them to stay put in a dry spot if you can. Over the phone, calmly ask what’s wet and whether anything is coming from the ceiling—that’s always an extra urgent fix.
Quick note: If the flooding is severe (water up to power outlets, for example), remind them not to touch anything electrical. You might want to keep emergency numbers handy, just in case.
Turn Off the Water (And Keep Everyone Dry)
Even small leaks can escalate fast. If your loved one is able, walk them through turning off the main water valve—most houses have them in the basement, garage, or sometimes outside. If that’s out of the question, don’t sweat it; just keep everyone away from the water until help arrives.
Move to Safety—Grab the Essentials
If things are getting soggy, get your parent or grandparent to a dry spot with a cozy sweater and some slippers. Bring along any medications, glasses, walkers—anything they need regularly. Wet floors are no joke for anyone feeling unsteady. Honestly, I once had to make a rescue run for a neighbor’s cat in flood boots, and I’ll never forget how slippery those wood floors got within minutes.
Call in Reinforcements—Family, Friends, or Pros
Sometimes you can wrangle relatives to help move precious things out of harm’s way—photo albums, keepsakes, heirlooms that definitely shouldn’t get soaked. If it’s a bigger mess, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. Restoration and cleaning companies are used to getting called in at odd hours, so you won’t be the first. And if the mess seems overwhelming, FEMA or your city’s emergency management people may have extra advice for seniors, too.
Think Ahead for Next Time (Nobody Wants a Repeat!)
If flooding keeps happening—or if your loved one simply isn’t safe alone anymore—it might be time to gently discuss new options. An assisted living community can take away the worry of home maintenance and emergency mishaps. If that feels like a big step, maybe look at updating things around the house: doorstops, sump pumps, new rugs, or waterproof storage for important stuff.
One Flood at a Time
It’s stressful, sure, but with a bit of prep, a few calls, and some practical thinking, your loved one can stay safe (and maybe even dry). And when the water is finally gone, take a minute to share a hot drink and a sigh of relief together. Sometimes, that’s the best medicine of all.
Photo by Helena Jankovičová Kováčová: