Have a List of Emergency Contacts Ready for Crises

Emergencies can happen at any time, and for those caring for someone with dementia, having a list of emergency contacts readily available can make a critical difference in ensuring a quick and effective response. Whether it’s a medical emergency, a sudden change in behaviour, or a situation where additional support is needed, knowing who to call can reduce stress and improve outcomes.

Why Emergency Contact Lists Matter in Dementia Care

Dementia can present unpredictable challenges, such as sudden confusion, agitation, falls, or wandering. In moments of crisis, it can be difficult to think clearly and find the right numbers. Having a pre-prepared emergency contact list ensures that help is just a phone call away.

A well-organised list can:

• Speed up response times in an emergency.
• Ensure the right professionals are contacted first to avoid delays.
• Reduce stress and anxiety for carers and family members.
• Provide backup contacts if primary caregivers are unavailable.

Who Should Be on the Emergency Contact List?

Your emergency contact list should include a mix of medical, personal, and community support contacts. Here’s who to consider:

1. Medical and Emergency Services

• 999 – Emergency services (ambulance, police, fire brigade)
• NHS 111 – Non-emergency medical advice
• GP Surgery – Include the practice name, GP’s name, and phone number
• Local hospital A&E department – Note the hospital’s main contact number
• Pharmacist – Helpful for medication-related queries
• Community or district nurse – If involved in care, their direct number is valuable

2. Key Carers and Family Members

• Primary carer(s) – Name, relationship, and phone number
• Secondary carers – Any backup family members, close friends, or neighbours who assist
• Emergency respite care contact – If an urgent break in care is needed

3. Dementia and Social Care Support Services

• Local dementia helpline or support group – Such as Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Connect (0333 150 3456)
• Adult social services contact – Useful if extra care support is needed quickly
• Local Carers’ Support Network – Many areas have support organisations that offer advice and assistance

4. Practical Support Contacts

• Electricity, gas, and water providers – In case of power or water supply issues
• Locksmith or home security provider – If locks need changing after a lost key or security breach
• Taxi service or transport provider – If an urgent trip to a hospital or GP is needed

How to Organise and Store the List

To ensure the list is easy to access in an emergency, consider these steps:

• Keep a printed copy in a visible location, such as on the fridge or near the phone.
• Store a digital copy on a mobile phone or tablet.
• Share the list with other family members or close friends.
• Use a medical ID bracelet or card if the person with dementia is at risk of wandering.

Creating an Emergency Information Pack

To go one step further, create a small folder or digital document with:

• The emergency contact list
• A summary of the person’s medical history (including diagnosed conditions, medications, and allergies)
• Any legal documents such as a lasting power of attorney (LPA) or advance care plan
• Key care preferences (e.g., preferred hospital, any known triggers for distress, communication preferences)
• A recent photo in case the person ever goes missing

Reviewing and Updating the List

Your emergency contact list should be reviewed every few months to ensure:

• All phone numbers and details are up to date.
• No contacts have changed or are no longer relevant.
• New support services are added if needed.

Seeking Additional Support

If you’re unsure about what emergency contacts are best for your situation, consider speaking to a dementia adviser, social worker, or GP. They can help you identify the right people to include and provide additional resources.

Having a well-prepared emergency contact list is a simple but essential step in protecting the safety and well-being of someone living with dementia. A few minutes of preparation now can provide peace of mind and make all the difference in a crisis.

Sources:

• Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). “Planning for Emergencies.” Available at: https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/planning-for-emergencies [Accessed 9 March 2025]
• NHS. (2024). “What to Do in an Emergency.” Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/first-aid/ [Accessed 9 March 2025]
• Alzheimer’s Society. (2023). “Dementia Support Services and Helplines.” Available at: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/ [Accessed 9 March 2025]