Helping Seniors Stay Safe, Informed, and Independent

Emergencies such as extreme heat, power outages, wildfire smoke, and severe weather can be especially challenging for older adults. Being prepared can make a big difference.

The City of Nanaimo is creating a Seniors Emergency Preparedness Information Guide to help older adults prepare for community-wide emergencies and know where to find information and support when it's needed most.

The survey is now closed! Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete a survey. We are currently reviewing the data and will post the results soon.

In 2019, Nanaimo City Council adopted the Age-Friendly City Plan, which included actions to improve accessibility, social connection, transportation, housing, outdoor spaces, and communication for older adults. A key priority of the plan was ensuring that seniors have access to clear, timely, and culturally appropriate information. These priorities were included in the adoption of the City's Official Community Plan (City Plan: Nanaimo ReImagined) and Integrated Action Plan (IAP).

Recent provincial and local research highlights why this work is important. In 2022, the BC Coroners Service reported that older adults, particularly those living alone, face a higher risk during extreme heat events. To better understand local needs, the City completed the Extreme Heat Mapping, Assessment and Planning Project.

The project identified opportunities to better support residents during extreme heat, including providing clearer heat-safety information, creating a heat-relief map, improving emergency preparedness resources, strengthening partnerships with community organizations and Snuneymuxw First Nation, and offering information in commonly spoken community languages. These actions help build a safer and more inclusive community for everyone.