Emergency Preparedness for Seniors: Essential Tips and Checklists

Posted on September 2nd, 2025

Emergencies can happen at any time—natural disasters, severe weather, power outages, or medical incidents. While planning for emergencies may feel overwhelming, being prepared gives you confidence, independence, and peace of mind. For seniors, thoughtful preparation is especially important, because mobility, health conditions, or medications can make unexpected situations more challenging.

At Laurel Heights, we believe preparedness is not about fear—it’s about taking practical steps to protect yourself and your loved ones while maintaining your independence and quality of life. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you stay safe and ready, no matter what comes your way.

Government of Canada's Emergency Preparedness Guide offers a comprehensive checklist to help seniors prepare for various emergencies. It includes tips on creating emergency plans, assembling 72-hour kits, and understanding community-specific risks. This resource is invaluable for seniors looking to take proactive steps in their emergency preparedness journey.

Why emergency preparedness matters for seniors

Seniors face unique risks during emergencies. According to the Canadian Red Cross, older adults may be more vulnerable due to mobility limitations, chronic conditions, sensory impairments, or social isolation. In emergencies, quick access to medical care, medications, and trusted support networks can make all the difference.

Being prepared doesn’t just protect your physical health—it reduces stress and anxiety, improves your decision-making under pressure, and helps you maintain autonomy. It also gives peace of mind to family and caregivers, knowing that you have a plan in place.

The Canadian Red Cross provides a detailed guide tailored for older adults. It covers essential topics such as identifying potential hazards, creating personalized emergency plans, and assembling necessary supplies.

Creating a personal emergency plan

A personal emergency plan outlines what you’ll do in different scenarios. Here’s how to get started:

Identify potential risks.
Consider the types of emergencies most likely in your area—floods, winter storms, power outages, or wildfires—and plan accordingly.
Plan how to communicate.
Keep a list of important phone numbers: family, friends, doctors, pharmacies, and local emergency services. Make sure these are accessible in print and stored on your phone.
Establish an emergency contact.
Choose someone you trust who can check on you or assist if needed. Make sure you both understand your plan.
Know evacuation routes.
If you live in a senior community or retirement residence, familiarize yourself with building exits and assembly areas. If you live independently, know your neighbourhood’s emergency evacuation routes.
Discuss your plan.
Talk with family, friends, and neighbours so everyone knows your needs and how to assist.

The Government of Alberta's Emergency Preparedness Toolkit offers practical advice and resources to help seniors prepare for emergencies. It includes information on creating emergency plans, assembling emergency kits, and understanding community-specific risks. This toolkit is an excellent resource for seniors in Alberta looking to enhance their emergency preparedness.

Essential items for a senior emergency kit

A well-stocked emergency kit can keep you safe and comfortable for at least 72 hours. Here are items to include:

Medications and medical supplies: At least a 7-day supply of prescriptions, plus any essential medical devices.
Food and water: Non-perishable foods and at least 3 litres of water per person per day.
Emergency tools: Flashlight, batteries, battery-powered radio, first-aid kit, and a multi-tool.
Comfort and personal items: Extra clothing, blankets, toiletries, eyeglasses, and hearing aids.
Important documents: Identification, medical records, insurance information, and a list of contacts.
Phone and chargers: Consider a solar charger or power bank in case of outages.

Tip: Rotate perishable items and check expiration dates every six months to ensure your kit is always ready.

Preparing for specific emergencies

Different emergencies require different approaches. Here are tips for seniors:

Severe weather (storms, heat waves, cold snaps): Keep extra water, blankets, and weather-appropriate clothing. Stay informed through local alerts and avoid unnecessary travel.
Power outages: Have backup lighting, battery-powered devices, and a manual can opener. Keep medications that require refrigeration in a cooler with ice packs.
Medical emergencies: Keep a list of medications, allergies, and health conditions in your emergency kit. Learn basic first-aid skills, and consider wearing a medical alert device.
Fire safety: Install smoke detectors, plan escape routes, and keep a small fire extinguisher accessible.

Staying informed and connected

Information is critical in an emergency. Seniors can benefit from multiple ways to stay informed:

Local emergency alerts: Sign up for city or community notifications via phone, text, or email.
Trusted media: Listen to local radio, TV, or online news for updates.
Neighbors and community networks: Stay connected with friends and neighbors who can check in during emergencies.

For seniors in retirement communities like Laurel Heights, team members often provide daily updates, coordinate emergency drills, and assist with transportation or evacuation if necessary. Taking advantage of these resources ensures you’re never alone in a crisis.

Practical tips for seniors

Practice your plan: Run through your emergency plan with family or neighbors to see what works and what needs adjustment.
Organize medications and documents: Keep them in a clearly labeled, easily accessible bag.
Maintain mobility aids: Ensure canes, walkers, or wheelchairs are ready and charged if applicable.
Keep a small “go bag”: For quick evacuations, include essentials for comfort, health, and communication.
Stay physically active: Strong mobility and endurance make it easier to evacuate or navigate during emergencies.

Building a support network

Being prepared isn’t just about items or plans—it’s also about people. Seniors benefit from a strong support network that can respond during emergencies:

Family and friends: Regularly update them on your plans and health needs.
Neighbors: Develop mutual check-in routines for power outages or weather events.
Community team: In senior living communities, team members are trained to assist with medical emergencies, evacuations, and communication.

The Canadian Psychological Association offers resources to help cope with and respond to various types of emergencies, disasters, and tragic events. These resources are designed to support seniors and their caregivers in managing the psychological impacts of emergencies.

How senior living communities support emergency preparedness

Living in a senior community like Laurel Heights offers an added layer of safety and peace of mind. One of the ways these communities help residents stay prepared is through regular emergency preparedness reviews.

Scheduled drills and reviews: Communities periodically conduct fire, earthquake, and severe weather drills to ensure everyone knows evacuation routes, assembly points, and safety protocols. These exercises help residents feel confident and reduce panic during real emergencies.
Plan updates and guidance: Teams review emergency plans with residents at least once a year, adjusting for changes in health, mobility, or medications. Residents are encouraged to ask questions and update their personal emergency kits as needed.
Accessible resources: Communities provide printed guides, workshops, and one-on-one support to help residents understand and practice their emergency plans.
Coordination with families: Communities communicate updates and procedures to family members, ensuring everyone is aware of protocols and support systems.

These proactive measures make living in a senior community safer and stress-free. Residents can enjoy independence, social engagement, and a vibrant lifestyle, knowing they are prepared for unexpected events.

Peace of mind through preparation

Emergency preparedness empowers you to take control of situations that can feel uncertain or stressful. By planning ahead, maintaining an emergency kit, and staying informed, seniors can confidently protect their health and independence.

At Laurel Heights, our residents are supported every step of the way. From emergency drills to accessible resources and guidance, we ensure you are prepared—while keeping life comfortable, social, and engaging. Preparedness is not just safety; it’s freedom to live confidently, knowing you’re ready for whatever comes.

Choosing where to live in your later years is about more than just a place to stay—it’s about feeling secure, supported, and empowered in your daily life. Having a community that prioritizes safety, preparedness, and well-being allows you to focus on what truly matters: enjoying meaningful connections, pursuing your interests, and living each day with confidence.

If you or someone you love is exploring senior living in Edmonton, we invite you to learn more about how our community supports residents to live with comfort and confidence—every step of the way.

We invite you to visit Laurel Heights and see how we support joyful, culturally inclusive senior living in Edmonton. Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to ensure you feel right at home.

Contact us or Book a Tour to explore how community living and personalised experiences come together to create a life filled with comfort and endless possibilities.

Continue your journey here

Looking to take the next step or simply stay connected? Here are a few helpful links:

Contact us – We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.
Book a tour – Come experience our community in person.
Virtual tour - Discover the warmth of our community from wherever you are.
Visit our YouTube channel – See daily life, special moments, expert interviews and resident stories in action.

About Laurel Heights

Located in Edmonton’s peaceful Meadows area, Laurel Heights is a senior living community that blends comfort, culture, and connection. With a focus on inclusivity, it offers a nurturing environment where residents can enjoy independence while being supported by a caring community. The residence boasts modern, spacious suites tailored for both Independent and Supportive Living, thoughtfully equipped with amenities such as kitchenettes and emergency call systems to ensure safety and convenience. Managed by Optima Living, a trusted operator with over 15 years of experience in Western Canada, Laurel Heights is dedicated to providing exceptional senior care, ensuring that every resident leads a fulfilling and dignified life.