As Texans mark the anniversary of Hurricane Beryl, the spotlight is on how Texas seniors were left dangerously exposed. When the power failed, many older adults endured the heat without air conditioning, oxygen, or refrigerated medications. It highlighted the growing risk for seniors during natural disasters, such as Beryl.
When Hurricane Beryl tore through the Houston area, it left over 2.5 million without electricity in sweltering July heat. Among the most brutally affected were elderly residents living in senior homes and assisted living centers, many of which were legally exempt from having emergency generators.
When Generators Failed, Seniors Paid the Price
A recent Houston Chronicle investigation found that the Texas Legislature had previously rejected a bill that would have required backup power in these facilities. The proposed law was introduced after Winter Storm Uri in 2021, but it was quietly shelved, leaving senior homes dangerously unprepared.
Some residents sat in rooms that reached 105°F without functioning oxygen tanks or refrigerated insulin. Others relied on overworked staff using flashlights and battery-powered fans to keep people safe. While hospitals are required to have generators, many senior facilities are not.
Advocates are urging lawmakers to take action before the next storm strikes. Without legislative change, Texas seniors will continue to face deadly conditions when events like Hurricane Beryl hit again.
Why Are Seniors Being Overlooked?
The answer often comes down to money. Advocates argue that operators resist new mandates due to the high cost of installing generators, while lawmakers are hesitant to impose regulations. Unfortunately, the elderly—who are most sensitive to heat and power loss—continue to suffer as a result.
According to the CDC, older adults are disproportionately at risk of heat-related illness and death. The combination of high temperatures, power outages, and limited mobility creates a lethal trifecta.
Emergency preparedness must prioritize Texas seniors before another Hurricane Beryl puts lives at risk.
How Families Can Protect Their Loved Ones
Until legislation catches up, families can take steps to prepare:
- Ask your loved one’s facility if they have a generator, and whether it powers AC and medical devices
- Request to see their emergency preparedness plan
- Keep portable power banks or backup battery-operated fans on hand
- Have a nearby evacuation plan ready if conditions become unsafe
- Consider investing in personal medical alert systems with GPS and mobile connectivity
Will Texas Do Better Next Time?
Hurricane Beryl exposed the fragility of the safety net for many Texas seniors. With more extreme weather events expected, the need for emergency power mandates in senior housing has never been more apparent. For now, advocacy groups are urging lawmakers to revive the stalled legislation before another disaster strikes.
Has your family been affected by a power outage at a senior facility? Please share your story with us.
