Senior Safety
Emergency Preparedness for Older Adults Living at Home
How to prepare for power outages, storms, evacuation, medical equipment needs, medications, pets, and caregiver communication.
Emergency planning is more complicated when someone uses medications, mobility equipment, oxygen, refrigerated supplies, hearing aids, or caregiver support. A plan should work when phones are low, power is out, and normal helpers cannot arrive.
Build the basics
- Medication list, allergies, insurance cards, doctors, and emergency contacts.
- Three to seven days of critical supplies when possible.
- Flashlights, batteries, chargers, water, shelf-stable food, and hygiene supplies.
- Evacuation destination and transportation plan.
- Pet care plan and copies of key documents.
Plan for equipment
Ask suppliers and doctors what to do if oxygen, CPAP, refrigerated medication, power wheelchairs, or other equipment loses power. Register with local emergency programs if available.
Use official guidance
The CDC highlights emergency planning concerns for older adults in its Emergency Preparedness Concerns for Older Adults resource.
Use YouRetire tools
Create and print an Emergency Contact Sheet. Give copies to the home, travel bag, family caregiver, and backup helper.