Why Preparing for Emergency Situations Matters in Dementia?
People living with dementia face unique risks during emergencies. They may not understand what is happening, may become frightened or agitated in unfamiliar settings, and may be unable to communicate their needs or medical information. Planning ahead can save lives and reduce stress for everyone.
1. Build a “Go-Bag”
Keep a packed bag near the front door or in an easy-to-remember location. Check and update it every 3 months.
Essential items to include:
- A printed copy of the Emergency Contacts Sheet.
- A current medication list with drug names, doses, and times given.
- At least a 3- to 5-day supply of all medications in original labeled bottles.
- Copies of important documents in a waterproof bag: Insurance cards (health, homeowner’s/renter’s), Photo ID for the person with dementia and the caregiver, Advance directive / Power of Attorney paperwork, A recent photo of the person with dementia (in case of separation).
- Comfort items that help calm the person (a favorite blanket, stuffed animal, music player with headphones, family photos).
- Incontinence supplies if needed.
- Snacks and bottled water (at least a 3-day supply).
- A change of clothing and sturdy shoes.
- Flashlight with extra batteries.
- Phone charger / portable battery pack.
- A whistle (to signal for help).
2. Medical ID Systems
A person with dementia may become separated from caregivers during an emergency. Medical identification can help first responders provide safe care.
Options to consider:
- Medical ID bracelet or necklace that should include the person’s name, the word “DEMENTIA” or “MEMORY IMPAIRED,” emergency contact phone numbers, and any critical allergies or conditions. Engrave rather than print, so it does not wear off.
- Wallet card, A laminated card in the person’s wallet or pocket with the same information.
- Smartphone medical ID. Most smartphones allow you to set up a Medical ID accessible from the lock screen. Include diagnosis, medications, allergies, and emergency contacts.
- GPS tracking device. Consider a wearable GPS tracker (watch-style or clip-on) in case the person wanders during an emergency. Several products are designed specifically for people with dementia.
- “This Is Me” personal passport. A one-page document that includes the person’s name, photo, diagnosis, communication needs, daily routines, likes/dislikes, and things that calm or upset them. Give copies to all caregivers and keep one in the go-bag.
3. Evacuation Considerations
Before an emergency:
- Identify 2–3 safe places you could go (a relative’s home, a friend’s home, a hotel). Shelters can be overwhelming for people with dementia due to noise, crowds, and unfamiliar surroundings.
- Practice the evacuation route with the person with dementia so it feels more familiar.
- Register with your local emergency management office for special-needs assistance during evacuations, if available in your area.
- If the person uses a wheelchair, walker, or oxygen, plan how you will transport this equipment.
- Talk to neighbors you trust and let them know about your situation so they can help if needed.
During an emergency:
- Stay calm. The person with dementia will pick up on your emotions. Use a reassuring voice and simple, short sentences.
- Do not argue or try to explain the emergency in detail. Instead, say things like: “We are going somewhere safe. I am right here with you.”
- Bring familiar comfort items to reduce agitation.
- If you must go to a public shelter, ask staff about a quiet area or a special-needs section.
- Never leave the person with dementia alone, even briefly.
After an emergency:
Return to normal routines as quickly as possible.
- Watch for increased confusion, agitation, or changes in behavior as these may be signs of stress or a medical problem.
- Contact the person’s doctor if you notice significant changes.
4. Important Tips
- Update your plan every 3 months or whenever medications, doctors, or contact information change.
- Share your plan with at least 2 trusted people outside your household.
- Keep copies of all important documents in a secure digital location (email to yourself, cloud storage) as a backup.
- Know your local resources. Contact your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter (24/7 Helpline: 1-800-272-3900) or Area Agency on Aging for help with emergency planning.
5. Emergency Contacts List
Fill Out, Print, and Post in Your Home.
Post this sheet on the refrigerator, near the front door, and keep a copy in the go-bag.
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
Person with Dementia:
Primary Caregiver:
Backup Caregiver #1:
Backup Caregiver #2:
Primary Care Doctor:
Neurologist / Specialist:
Pharmacy:
Preferred Hospital / ER:
Health Insurance:
Current Medications:
Medication Name: Dose: Frequency: What It’s For:
Other Important Numbers:
Location of Important Documents:
Safe Evacuation Locations:
Date this form was last updated:
References:
Dementia Caregivers’ respective on disaster preparedness Barriers, resources, and recommendations.
The Gerontologist. 2024. Peterson LJ, Hackett SE, Dobbs D, Haley WE.
Applying the age-friendly-health system 4M paradigm to reframe climate-related disaster preparedness for nursing home populations.
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Ethical consideration in dementia diagnosis and care: AAN position statement.
Neurology. 2021. Chiong W, Tsou AY, Simmons Z, et al. ReviewAdvance care planning in cognitively impaired older adults.
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. 2018. deLima Thomas J, Sanchez-Reilly S, Bernacki R, et al.
The components of personal passport for people living with dementia in an acute healthcare setting: an integrative review.
Journal of Clinical Nursing. 2022. Beattie F, Kerr L, Larkin J, Cawley Review
Emergency information management needs and practice of older adults: A descriptive study.
International Journal of Medical Informatics. 2018. Turner AM, Osterhage K, Loughran J, et al.
