Being Thankful after a Devastation

Donna Nichols • November 2, 2022
An aerial view of a hurricane in the ocean

 

Following the wrath of Hurricane Ian, you may feel you have nothing to be thankful for this Thanksgiving, but there is always a silver lining you just have to see it, and believe me, it's there!


It's inevitable that loss of life, home, belongings, jobs, businesses and community will affect everyone, whether they were impacted personally or not. You, or someone you know, may have lost your house, or parts of it, you may have lost your belongings and your furniture, or your car. But you have your life, you have your cherished memories and you have your friends and family.

 

So, how do you cope after a major hurricane? If you know what signs to look for, you can get help sooner thus deterring larger health problems down the road. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a very serious condition that can arise from any kind of natural disaster. If you notice any of the signs below, PLEASE seek help immediately!!

 

Signs can vary from person to person and some people never show any signs of PTSD at all, but the most common signs are outlined below. 


 Emotional signs can include being anxious, fearful and sad, or angry. Feeling guilty is another big emotional sign, especially after a disaster, such as hurricane Ian was. This is referred to as survivor’s guilt. You may feel as though you should have lost your home when you came out unscathed and your neighbor lost everything.

 

These are all normal feelings and it’s like a grieving process. Take the time to let your feelings run their course and then carry on. Do not dwell on your gain/loss; pick yourself up, brush yourself off and get back to business. That is the only way to push through those emotional signs and not let them take over your mental capabilities. PLEASE do NOT try to drink them away or take drugs to numb them!! These solutions are only temporary and will only worsen the situation.

 

Reach out to others for support!!

 

Physical signs which can include gastric and stomach problems, headaches, eating or drinking too much, sweats or chills, shaking and muscle twitches. This is the category I fall into. When I was younger, they called it a nervous stomach. I was always sick with a stomach ache and headache, not knowing it would lead to migraines and severe gastro issues later in life.

 

I am still thankful though because it could be so much worse. This is what I mean about looking for the silver lining. My issues could leave me debilitated, not able to work or play golf, but they don’t. These same issues have others on disability and they are unable to do anything. So, does it suck to have these issues? Yes. Could my situation be worse? Yes. Do I wish things were different? Yes. Can I change the way things are? No. Does it do me any good to stress over the way things are? No. Am I grateful I can still have an active life? YES!!! 

 

Look for that lining!! It’s there!!!

 

There are also behavioral and cognitive signs of PTSD which can result in severe health problems. Some of those include, trouble falling or staying asleep, using too much alcohol, tobacco, drugs, isolation, thinking clearly, concentration, confusion, trouble making difficult decisions and remembering things.

 

Most of these symptoms will dissipate over time. However, if they don’t subside seek medical advice.

 

Here are some tips to help you cope:

 

Here at Assisted Living Made Simple, we are very support group oriented!! Find a support group to help you for your unique situation. There are so many online groups out there; a simple Google search will turn up hundreds of possibilities for you to find the perfect fit.

 

●         Keep in touch with family and friends for support too.

●         Make sure you acknowledge when you are having a stressful moment and deal with it constructively, don’t let emotions get pent up inside you.

●         Share your experiences with others and send support messages. These will not only help others in your situation, but will make you feel better as well.

●         Exercise to help release the endorphins into your body. These are natural mood enhancers and are great for your brain health too!

●         Listen to music and take deep breaths and feel the stress flowing out of your body with every exhale.

●         Eat healthy and drink lots of water.

 

Hopefully some of the above will help you deal with the after affects of hurricane Ian so you are able to find a way to be thankful this November. We are always here for you and are just a phone call away.

 

"Things" can be replaced, YOU cannot! I know the struggle is real, but you can rebuild because you are resilient and it is what we do as human beings! Ask yourself; is this the worst thing that has ever happened to me? If so, count yourself lucky; if it's not, then you know you can get through this too.

And remember, the only way to get to the other side is through!

 

Assisted Living Made Simple is thankful YOU are still with us!! 


A neon sign that says gratitud is surrounded by plants.

Beating the Florida Summer Heat

By Donna Nichols • July 7, 2025
Florida summers come in three flavors: hot, hotter, and what fresh hell is this? Whether you're a lifelong local or newly initiated into the Sunshine Sweat Fest, you know it’s more survival sport than season. So, how do we stay cool without losing our cool? Here’s your sun-savvy guide to getting through it. Make hydration a hobby Not just water, electrolytes are your best friends when you're sweaty. Coconut water, cucumber-mint spritzers, watermelon slices. If your drink doesn’t sparkle, chill, or drip condensation like a rom-com montage, it’s not summer-ready. Dress for success and summertime Loose, light, breathable fabrics. Cotton, linen, or the holy grail: moisture-wicking. Bonus points for sun hats and SPF clothing that make you look like a beach detective on vacation. Fans ARE your best friends Table fans, ceiling fans, handheld fans—the whole rotation. Keep them oscillating like your thoughts during a political debate. And if you’ve got a cooling towel? You’re royalty. Avoid the “Roasting Hours” From 11 AM to 4 PM, Florida turns into a convection oven. Errands, walks, and yard work? Schedule them early or late. Unless you’re trying to get baked like a Publix cookie—then by all means. Sunscreen is a lifestyle Apply, reapply, then pretend  you're an influencer and do it again. Because nothing says “I’m melting” like a shoulder burn shaped like your purse strap. Eat lightly Cold meals can be your best friend—salads, chilled pasta, and fruit-forward lunches are all options. Bonus points if you serve them on plates fresh from the fridge like the true champion you are. Rest, reset, repeat If the heat’s making you crankier than a mosquito at a citronella convention, take breaks: shade, air conditioning, quiet corners. Recharge without guilt—you’re surviving a sauna with its own zip code. Florida heat might be relentless, but so are we. With humor, hydration, and a healthy dose of stubborn grace, we ride the wave and keep the ice cubes coming. Stay cool out there, friends. You’ve got this.

Honoring Independence Day with Grace

By Donna Nichols • July 2, 2025
Not every 4th of July needs to burst with fireworks. For many older adults, especially those with tender hearing, health challenges, or a fondness for quieter joys, Independence Day can be just as meaningful in a slower rhythm. It’s the scent of something delicious simmering nearby, the comfort of a cool seat and a cherished show, and the simple dignity of being remembered; of having made it this far, with stories to tell and wisdom that still glows brighter than any sparkler. Caregiver Tips for a Thoughtful 4th: Keep things soft and soothing. Loud sounds can be jarring for seniors with sensory sensitivities, dementia, or PTSD. Choose instrumental patriotic music or old-time radio shows that bring joy without overwhelming them. Build a gentle plate. Soft, easy-to-eat favorites like tender pulled chicken, mashed potatoes, or a festive red, white, and blue parfait (layered Greek yogurt, mashed berries, and crushed graham crackers) keep things celebratory without strain. Spark memories, not stress. Bring out family photo albums, classic Americana films, or even music from their youth. Columbo, The Andy Griffith Show, or golden-age musicals can be a comforting trip down memory lane. Create rest-friendly spaces. A cozy chair near the window, a shaded seat outside, or even a reclined viewing spot for a live TV broadcast of fireworks can help them feel included without fatigue. Let them lead the conversation. Ask about what Independence Day meant to them growing up. You might discover tales of ration books, war bonds, or dancing at VFW halls. These stories are treasures wrapped in the quiet of the day.  In the end, Independence Day is about honoring resilience—the kind that’s quieter, often overlooked, but profoundly enduring. Whether you’re caring for someone, being cared for, or simply holding space for reflection, there’s beauty in choosing peace over spectacle. This Fourth of July, let’s celebrate not just the freedom of a nation but also the freedom to adapt, to rest, and to cherish those we love in the way that suits them best.

Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 4, 2025
Florida's paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical beauty—is also home to one of the most intense annual weather phenomena: hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30, Floridians remain on high alert as powerful storms brew in the Atlantic, each potentially bringing torrential rain, fierce winds, and coastal surges. Understanding hurricane season is crucial for residents and visitors, as it ensures safety and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. The Impact on Florida Florida has experienced some of the most destructive hurricanes in history, including Andrew (1992), Irma (2017), Ian (2022), Debby, Helene, and Milton (2024). These storms left behind immense devastation, flooding homes, severing power lines, and reshaping entire communities. The economic toll of hurricanes is staggering, affecting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. Coastal regions, particularly the Florida Keys and areas along the Gulf Coast, often face the most significant risk. However, inland areas are not immune—wind damage and flooding can wreak havoc miles from the shoreline. Preparing for Hurricane Season Being prepared is the best defense against hurricanes. Here’s how Floridians can safeguard themselves: Stay Informed : Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time tracking and updates. Create an Emergency Kit : Stock up on essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget important documents and pet supplies! Have a Plan : Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. Discuss emergency plans with family members and establish a safe meeting point. Secure Your Home : Reinforce windows, clear debris from your yard, and consider investing in storm shutters if possible. Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but with preparation and awareness, residents can confidently weather the storm. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a visitor experiencing the Sunshine State, staying informed and ready is key.  Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—storms may come, but resilience keeps Florida strong.
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