The Importance of Emergency Preparedness Kits for Seniors
Emergencies can happen anytime, and being prepared can make all the difference, especially for seniors with unique health and mobility challenges. Natural disasters, such as floods, bushfires, storms, unexpected power outages, or medical emergencies, can pose serious risks.
Yet, only one in five households in New Zealand is prepared for a natural disaster. In Australia, emergencies are increasing, yet households are not prepared, as reported by the Australian Red Cross. This research highlights why emergency preparedness is particularly important for seniors, who may face additional challenges during crises.
Yet, an emergency preparedness kit tailored to the needs of seniors is an essential step in ensuring safety and well-being in times of crisis. It provides readily accessible supplies like food, water, and medications to sustain themselves during evacuations or in shelters.
In this blog:
In this post, we explore why emergency preparedness kits are crucial for seniors, what items should be included, and how to customise them for individual needs.
Why Seniors Need Emergency Preparedness Kits
Here are essential reasons why seniors in Australia and New Zealand must have emergency preparedness kits:
1. Increased Vulnerability
Many seniors may find emergency situations more challenging due to mobility or health considerations, making preparation even more valuable. Reduced mobility, vision or hearing impairments, and chronic health conditions can slow reaction times and make evacuations difficult. Having a well-stocked emergency kit ensures that essential supplies are within easy reach.
2. Dependence on Medication and Medical Devices
Many seniors may depend on daily medications or assistive technology such as mobility aids, hearing devices, or medical equipment. In an emergency, access to these essentials may be compromised. A preparedness kit helps maintain continuity of care by ensuring necessary medical items are readily available.
3. Communication Challenges
During a disaster, communication networks may be down, making it difficult for seniors to reach family members or emergency services. A preparedness kit that includes emergency contact information, a battery-powered radio, and a charged mobile phone with emergency numbers pre-programmed can help seniors stay informed and connected.
4. Limited Ability to Evacuate Quickly
In fast-moving emergencies like bushfires or flash floods, immediate evacuation may be required. Having a grab-and-go emergency kit with essential supplies makes it easier for seniors to leave their homes quickly and safely.
Related reading: Stay Safe in the Cold: 12 Winter Safety Tips for Seniors
Essential Items for a Senior’s Emergency Preparedness Kit
A well-prepared emergency kit should contain essential supplies to last at least 72 hours. Below is a comprehensive checklist for seniors:
Basic Survival Supplies
Water – At least three litres per person per day
Non-perishable food – Easy-to-open canned goods, dried fruit, nuts, and high-energy snacks
A manual can opener if canned food is included in the kit
Flashlight with extra batteries
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio – To stay updated on emergency broadcasts
First aid kit – Bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and personal medications
Emergency whistle for signalling for help
Multipurpose tool – A Swiss Army knife or similar tool for various tasks
Blankets and warm clothing in case of cold weather
Extra cash since ATMs may not be operational
Medical and Personal Care Items
A week’s supply of prescription medications in original packaging
Copies of medical records, including health conditions and allergies
Hearing aids with extra batteries
Eyeglasses or contact lenses with solution
Mobility aids such as extra cane, walker, or wheelchair batteries
Personal hygiene items like et wipes, hand sanitiser, tissues, soap, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene products
Important Documents and Communication Tools
List of emergency contacts, like family, doctors, caregivers, and local emergency services
Copies of personal identification, such as a passport, a driver’s licence, and a Medicare card
Home insurance and medical insurance details
Notebook and pen to record important information
Prepaid mobile phone or power bank fully charged for emergency calls
Special Considerations for Seniors with Disabilities or Chronic Conditions
If required, oxygen tanks and a backup supply
For diabetics, a blood sugar testing kit and insulin
Extra batteries for medical devices
Emergency identification bracelet to alert responders of medical conditions
Related reading: How to Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses: Summer Safety Tips for Seniors
How to Customise an Emergency Kit for Individual Needs
Every senior has unique health and lifestyle needs, so an emergency kit should be tailored accordingly. Here are some additional considerations:
Dietary needs – Pack foods that accommodate dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free or low-sodium options.
Mobility challenges – Ensure assistive devices are lightweight and easily transportable.
Cognitive impairments – For seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s, include an ID bracelet and a note with emergency instructions.
Pet care – If the senior has a pet, include food, water, and necessary supplies for their animal companion.
Also, pay attention to local disaster risks -- for instance, add a cooling fan for extreme heat and extra warm clothing for cold weather.
Maintaining and Updating the Emergency Kit
An emergency preparedness kit should be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure all items remain in good condition. Here’s how:
Check expiration dates – Replace expired food, water, and medications or change them based on personal needs.
Test electronic items – Flashlights, assistive devices, radios, and batteries should be in working condition.
Update contact information – Ensure emergency contacts are current on bracelets and other key documents
Practice using the kit – Familiarise seniors with how to use emergency supplies and devices.
More importantly, keep the kit in a designated, readily accessible location where your loved one can easily locate it. Regularly remind them where the kit is, particularly when a loved one is suffering from cognitive impairment.
Creating an Emergency Plan
Having an emergency kit is essential, but seniors should also have a well-thought-out emergency plan. Here are key steps to consider:
Identifying safe locations – Know the nearest evacuation centres and safe places to go when an emergency strikes
Planning evacuation routes – Have multiple routes mapped out in case roads are blocked.
Establishing a communication plan – Decide who to contact in an emergency and how.
Coordinating with caregivers – Inform caregivers and neighbours of the emergency plan.
Note that the kit is only useful when you have an effective plan to ensure safe evacuation. Go through the plan with everyone to ensure seamless coordination during emergencies.
Get Assistive Devices for Emergency Preparedness Kits
Emergency preparedness is important for seniors, as they may face additional challenges during crises. A well-stocked emergency kit can provide peace of mind and ensure safety during a disaster. Planning, updating supplies regularly, and customising kits to individual needs allow seniors and their caregivers to be better prepared for emergencies.
Taking these proactive steps can make all the difference in ensuring health, safety, and well-being when the unexpected happens. An essential for the kit is a personal alarm or a fall detector, which can ensure immediate care for seniors whenever they need help.
Technology can play a crucial role in emergency preparedness. Tunstall Healthcare's Connected Care solutions, including personal alarms and fall detection devices like the Gem4 and Gem5, provide an additional layer of safety that seamlessly integrates with emergency kits. These devices ensure help is always within reach, supporting independence and peace of mind for individuals and their families.
Explore our products to find the perfect options to add to emergency preparedness kits for seniors.
Further Reading: 5 Best Personal Emergency Alarms to Keep With You at All Times
