Emergency Preparedness for Older Adults

With advanced age, some older adults are at greater risk for physical and mental health conditions, may live alone, and have slower reaction time. These issues may impair their ability to act quickly during an emergency. Since there is no telling when an emergency or natural disaster may occur, it is important to be prepared for any type of emergency.

Emergency Contact List

Create a list of people you want to contact in case of an emergency and how you’ll reach these people when communications may be disrupted.  One resource is available by visiting the Red Cross website at https://www.redcross.org/content/dam/redcross/get-help/how-to-prepare/253901-07%20BRCR%20Emergency%20Contact%20Card%20FINAL.pdf

Home Emergency Kit

Being prepared means being equipped with the proper supplies you may need in the event of an emergency or disaster. Keep your supplies in an easy-to-carry emergency preparedness kit that you can use at home or take with you if you must evacuate.

  • Flashlight
  • Portable, battery-operated radio
  • First Aid Kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Extra clothing
  • Blankets
  • Nonperishable food (3-day supply per person)
  • Water (1 gallon per person, per day – 3-day supply)
  • Medication supply for two weeks
  • Batteries for flashlight, medical devices, and hearing aid
  • Change of clothes
  • Eyeglasses
  • Money
  • List of medical information
    • Physician names and numbers
    • Health conditions
    • Allergies
    • Updated medication list
    • Medical device information
  • Copy of important documents (stored in a plastic sealable bag): Passport, driver’s license, all insurance information, social security number, financial information, deeds

Regional Notification System

The County of San Diego has a regional notification system that will send residents telephone notifications that are impacted by or in danger of an emergency or disaster.  This system, called AlertSanDiego, will notify households what actions to take such as shelter in place or evacuate. To sign up for AlertSanDiego, visit https://www.readysandiego.org/content/oesready/en-us/alertsandiego.html

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As a hospice patient with The Elizabeth Hospice, your care team will provide support during a natural disaster or another type of emergency. Some patients might need to be moved to a facility for safety while others may remain at home. Extra supplies, oxygen and medications will be provided.

If you have any questions about emergency preparedness or the care provided by The Elizabeth Hospice during emergencies, please contact The Elizabeth Hospice at 800-797-2050.