Emergency planning for older adults at home
A little planning turns a frightening moment into a manageable one. Here's how Central Ohio families can help a loved one be ready for a medical, weather, or power emergency.
In short: a good plan has five parts — a current medical info sheet, an emergency contact list, a fast way to call for help (like a medical alert), a severe-weather and power plan, and backup supplies — all posted where they can be found quickly.
Who this guide is for
Families of an older adult who lives alone or spends part of the day alone, or anyone who wants a simple, ready-to-use plan for medical events and Ohio's severe weather.
When to call 911
Call 911 immediately for chest pain, trouble breathing, stroke signs (face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty), severe bleeding, a serious fall or head injury, or sudden confusion. When in doubt, call — it's always better to be safe.
Step-by-step: build the plan
- Create a medical info sheet. Conditions, medications and doses, allergies, doctors, insurance, and emergency contacts. Keep a copy on the fridge and by the phone (a "file of life").
- Set up fast help. Program key numbers into the phone; consider a medical alert device for anyone alone part of the day.
- Plan for weather. Central Ohio sees tornado season in spring/summer and ice/snow in winter — know the safe room, keep a weather radio or phone alerts on, and clear/salt entryways in winter.
- Plan for power outages. Keep flashlights, batteries, and backup power for any essential medical equipment; know how to get more if an outage is long.
- Stock backup supplies. A few days of water, non-perishable food, and a small stock of essential medications where allowed.
- Post it and practice it. Put the plan somewhere visible and walk through it together.
- Arrange check-ins. Regular wellness visits and a companion caregiver add a dependable human safety net.
Emergency readiness checklist
- Current medical info sheet posted (fridge + by phone)
- Emergency contact list — see our worksheet
- Medical alert device or fast way to call for help
- Severe-weather plan (safe room + alerts)
- Power-outage plan (lights, batteries, medical-equipment backup)
- Backup water, food, and essential medications
- Regular check-ins scheduled
Local Central Ohio resources
For non-emergencies, 2-1-1 connects Central Ohio residents to community services, and county emergency-management agencies share local weather and preparedness guidance. The Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA) can help arrange in-home support and check-ins across Columbus and nearby communities. See how we handle emergencies.
Frequently asked questions
What belongs in an elderly parent's emergency plan?
A medical info sheet, emergency contacts, a fast way to call for help, and weather/power plans — posted where they're easy to find.
Are medical alert devices worth it?
For someone alone part of the day, yes — a valuable safety net that complements regular check-ins.
When should I call 911?
Any life-threatening emergency — when in doubt, call.
This is general information, not medical advice. In an emergency, call 911.
Want to know if your loved one is truly prepared? Our free Family Peace of Mind Assessment™ includes emergency readiness.
Take the assessmentRelated services: Wellness visits · Companionship · Overnight care
Related guides: Home safety · Fall prevention · Medication safety