Emergency Checklist
for Seniors

Emergencies can occur at any moment, especially when it comes to our beloved senior citizens. Additionally, when one does occur and the individual in need can’t speak for themselves, it can be hectic trying to figure out the best course of care for them and what their wishes are. This can cause misdiagnosis and/or delays in proper care, which could prove catastrophic.

Because of all of this, it is helpful to have all of the important information and documents in one place. Below is a checklist of information for seniors to include in an emergency folder for loved ones to easily grab in case of an emergency. 

Here’s what to include in your senior emergency checklist folder:

1

Basic Information

Include a page with basic information such as:

  • Full name
  • Phone number
  • Address
  • Age 
2

Medical Contacts

  • Doctor’s name and phone number
  • Preferred hospital with address
3

Basic medical information

  • Allergies
  • Medications the individual is taking
  • Medical history
  • Current health conditions
4

Insurance information

5

Social security number

This can be useful when speaking with the insurance company and medical team members.

6

Power of attorney

This is an important legal document that should be included in your emergency folder. It gives an individual of the senior’s choosing the authority to make certain legal and financial decisions related to the senior if they are unable to themselves.

7

Health care proxy

This person can make medical decisions for the incapacitated individual. It is also a legal document that you should have prepared for this circumstance.

8

Wishes for prolonging life or do not resuscitate orders

This is where a person can list the life prolonging measures they wish to have used on them if they are incapacitated or if they wish for do not resuscitate (DNR) status. 

9

Key financial records

This includes account numbers, assets, and contacts at financial institutions. 

10

Emergency contacts

List of people who you want contacted in an emergency.

Senior

Emergency Information

Card for WAllet

Here’s a good list for a senior to keep in their wallet. In the case of an emergency, it can allow the individual helping them to get the most appropriate care as quickly as possible.

Here is a wallet sized image to print – click here

Here is a larger sized image to print – click here

In Case of Emergency

Take steps to prepare for an emergency now to help reduce its impact when one does occur.