Regardless of who or how, when an emergency strikes there are a few critical items that will make all the difference in the world for those left standing to pick up the pieces. This information is not age dependent.
- Keep a list of your ICE (In Case of Emergency) contacts in your wallet/purse and on your refrigerator. (If you put your ICE contacts in your phone, that’s great as long as your phone is not password protected). Go deep beyond just your spouse. Add your children, a best friend, or neighbor – whoever your go-to is if and when you have a problem. Have a back-up. Couples get in accidents or serious situations together and then who else is there to notify?
- Keep a CURRENT list of serious afflictions and medications in your wallet/purse AND your refrigerator or cupboard, so it’s accessible for first responders. Include anything you are allergic to – both medications and items such as nuts or shellfish. Do this for your spouse/loved one too. Children should keep a list of their parents’ medications with them as well, especially if they are the back-up person who will respond to an emergency.
- Include a tactful note sharing that your loved one has Dementia and cannot be left alone. First responders will take spouses to the ER with them so there is supervision until family or a homecare agency can rescue them.
- Review your Power of Attorney information to make sure it is current, and your designees are both willing and able to fulfill the roles you have asked of them. Make sure that your documents are in synch with Arizona law if they were prepared elsewhere. Most attorneys will review these documents for free.
Being prepared is crucuial and can save your life by giving those attempting to asses your current healthcare needs the tools they will need to properly assess your condition. We are here for you at " A Caring Hand for Mom (and Dad)" we are here to help you so please visit our website www.acaringhandformom.com for more information and call us at 800-881-7706.
This information was originally written by Carol Poker-Yount and shared with permission