Emergencies happen anywhere, whether it is a hurricane, heatwave, wildfire, or power outage. Even short-term disruptions can lead to serious risks for older adults if plans are not in place. That is why emergency preparedness is especially important for seniors and those caring for them.
No matter your situation, a safer, more prepared home starts with a few simple steps.
The 3 Pillars of Senior Emergency Readiness
Building an emergency plan for older adults starts with three key areas: safety, self-sufficiency, and support. When these pillars are strong, seniors are likelier to stay safe, calm, and healthy during a crisis.
Safety
The first step is to make the home as safe as possible, especially during a disaster when everyday routines are disrupted.
- Secure furniture and objects: Anchor bookshelves, TVs, and other heavy items to the wall. This prevents tipping during an earthquake or if bumped in low light.
- Plan for fall prevention: Keep flashlights in easy-to-reach places in case of a power outage. Tape down or remove area rugs that could cause trips in low light. Use nightlights or motion-sensor lights to help with visibility.
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: These should be working and easy to hear. Test batteries twice a year and keep extras on hand.
- Use a medical alert system: These devices make it easier to call for help during an emergency. Many models work even if the power goes out or you cannot reach a phone.
For additional help, check out Home Design for the 3 Stages of Old Age and Aging in Place: A Room-by-Room Guide to Preparing Your Home.
Self-Sufficiency
You may not be able to rely on outside help right away. Having the right supplies on hand makes it easier to stay safe and healthy while you wait.
- Stock food and water: Choose shelf-stable foods that do not need to be cooked or refrigerated. Canned beans, ready-to-eat meals, granola bars, and instant oats are good options. Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for three days.
- Medications: Ask your doctor or pharmacy about keeping an emergency backup supply of prescription medications. Some states allow early refills during hurricane season or public health emergencies.
- Medical supplies: Include hearing aid batteries, incontinence items, glucose monitors, or any personal care essentials that may be hard to find during a crisis.
- Keep basic tools nearby: A manual can opener, flashlights, extra batteries, a portable phone charger, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio.
- Prepare for power loss: Have extra blankets for warmth and consider battery-operated fans for hot weather. Keep any mobility devices (walkers, scooters, canes) within reach and cleared of clutter.
- Think about transportation: Roads may be closed or unsafe, and public transit may stop. Try to plan with neighbors, friends, or community services that can help if an evacuation becomes necessary.
Read How to Store Extra Medications for Emergencies and What to Do If You Run Out of Medication During a Disaster.
Support Systems
No one should go through a crisis alone. A strong support system is essential for senior emergency preparedness.
- Choose check-in contacts: Choose at least one person to check in during an emergency. This person could be a family member, friend, neighbor, or caregiver.
- Build a neighborhood network: Talk with neighbors about emergency plans if possible. Share contact information and decide how you might help each other during a storm, power outage, or evacuation.
- Register with local services: Many counties offer programs for seniors to sign up for emergency wellness checks. Some utility companies also have medical priority lists that restore power faster for people who rely on electricity for health equipment.
Want to go deeper? Read our Emergency Kit Checklist for Seniors and our Step-by-Step Guide to Emergency Planning for Seniors with Health Issues.
Coordinating With Community Resources
No household has to prepare alone. Across the country, local and state agencies offer programs to help seniors before, during, and after emergencies. Tapping into these resources early makes a big difference when disaster strikes.
Register With Local Services
Many counties and cities allow older adults to pre-register for help during emergencies. These programs flag your household for wellness checks, shelter support, or priority power restoration.
- Emergency management offices often have voluntary registries for residents with limited mobility, medical devices, or other special needs.
- Fire departments or EMS services in some areas offer home safety visits or evacuation assistance programs for seniors.
- Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) may help with transportation, shelter access, or follow-up care after a disaster.
Check your city or county website to find out what is available where you live.
Stay Connected With Alerts and Apps
Technology can keep you informed if you know where to look.
- Local alert systems: Sign up for text or phone alerts from your city or county's emergency services.
- Weather and emergency apps: Many states recommend tools like FEMA's app or state-specific systems (such as Florida's AlertFlorida or California's CalAlerts).
- Senior-focused organizations: Groups like Meals on Wheels or local senior centers often coordinate wellness calls or provide support during evacuations.
Read Senior Check-In Services and Best Practices for more details.
Emergency Preparedness for Senior Households With Pets
If you or your elderly family member has pets at home, including pets in your emergency plan is important.
What to Pack for Pets
In a crisis, your pet will rely on you more than ever. Keep these items ready in your main emergency kit or a separate pet go-bag.
- Food and water: Pack at least 7 days' worth of pet food. Include water bowls and a separate water supply for your animal.
- Leashes and crates: A leash, harness, and pet carrier or crate are essential for safe transport or temporary shelter.
- Medications and medical records: Keep a backup supply and written instructions on hand if your pet takes medication.
- Comfort items: A favorite toy, blanket, or treat can help calm your pet during stressful situations.
- Waste supplies: Pack plastic bags, litter and a scoop, or pee pads, depending on your pet's needs.
What Happens if You Cannot Care for Your Pet?
Emergencies change plans quickly. If hospitalization or evacuation becomes necessary, have a backup plan for your pet's care:
- Identify a caregiver: Choose a trusted family member, neighbor, or friend to take in your pet. Write down their contact information and give them a spare house key.
- Create written instructions: Include feeding schedules, medication needs, and any special care tips.
- Contact a local shelter or vet: Some animal shelters and veterinarians offer emergency boarding or can help connect you with temporary foster care.
Planning ahead for your pets means fewer decisions during a stressful time and peace of mind knowing they are safe and cared for.
Start Small, Start Today
You do not have to build the perfect plan overnight. Emergency preparedness can happen in stages. Start with a flashlight and a few extra cans of food. Talk with family about check-in plans. Print a contact list and keep it by the phone. Use this blog as your guide and then keep going.
Need help tailoring your plan? Contact Keystone Health to learn how our care team can support your household with personalized planning and caregiver coordination. We are here to help – before, during, and after the storm.
