Emergency Assistance

The increased incidence of illness and accidents about seniors highlight the need for ready access to emergency assistance services for older adults. Senior who live alone are increased needs due to the lack of someone else to call for assistance in the event of an emergency. In addition to the 911 service available in all communities, there are other emergency services are available for elderly persons. One example is the medical alert systems. These systems allow a senior to call for help using a special kind of pendant or bracelet. It is also important to be prepared ahead of time for emergencies and one important step is having necessary information readily available.

The MAYO Clinic recommends "10 things to know for an emergency" 

1- Names of their doctors. If you don't know anything else, this is probably the most important piece of information. Why? Chances are good that your parents' doctors can provide much of the rest of the information needed as well as more details about your parents' specific health histories.

2- Birth dates. Often medical records and insurance information are cataloged according to birth date. This can improve communication in an emergency or a crisis.

3- List of allergies. This is especially important if one of your parents is allergic to medication — penicillin, for example.

4- Advance directives. An advance directive is a legal document that outlines a person's decisions about his or her health care, such as whether or not resuscitation efforts should be made and the use of life-support machines.

5- Major medical problems. This includes such conditions as diabetes or heart disease.

6- List of medications and supplements. It's especially important that a doctor know if your parent uses blood thinners. It's also important for your doctor to know if your parents take any vitamin or herbal supplements that might interact with medications given in an emergency situation.

7- Religious beliefs. This is particularly important in case blood transfusions are needed.

8- Insurance information. Know the name of your parents' health insurance provider and their policy numbers.

9- Prior surgeries and major medical procedures. List past medical procedures including implanted medical devices such as pacemakers.

10- Lifestyle information. Do your parents drink alcohol or use tobacco?