Emergencies such as floods, wildfires, power outages, and severe weather can occur without warning. Older adults are often the most vulnerable during these events because of health, mobility, and cognitive challenges. For workers in long-term care and home care, understanding these unique needs is crucial to ensuring residents' safety and protection. 

Many seniors have chronic health conditions that require ongoing care. Some have: 

• Difficulty moving quickly or may rely on medical equipment, 

• Hearing and vision loss can make it harder for them to receive important information, 

• And those living with dementia may become confused or frightened during an emergency.  

Social isolation can also mean they have fewer people to turn to for help when disaster strikes. Long-term care and home care teams can improve their emergency plans by:  

• Including strategies explicitly tailored for older adults 

• This involves training staff to support residents with mobility or memory challenges and preparing emergency kits that include necessary medications and equipment.  

• Implementing regular drills 

• Drills help everyone stay prepared and respond with confidence in the event of an emergency. It is also crucial to provide mental health support both during and after emergencies to help residents and workers cope with the stress they may experience. 

Caregivers themselves face a lot of pressure in emergency situations. They need proper training, protective equipment, and emotional support to do their jobs safely. Creating a work environment where caregivers feel prepared and supported helps everyone get through difficult times. 

While emergencies can be unpredictable, preparation is key to saving lives. When care teams plan and consider the special needs of older adults, they can respond quickly and confidently, protecting both residents and themselves. 

If you work in long-term or home care, take a moment to reflect on your emergency preparedness: 

1. Do your current plans account for the physical, cognitive, and emotional needs of older adults in your care? 

2. Are staff trained, confident, and equipped to respond quickly and effectively during an emergency? 

3. What systems are in place to support the health and safety of caregivers during and after a crisis? 

Answering these questions today can make all the difference when an emergency happens. For more resources, visit June's safety topic or review this emergency preparedness info sheet.