Rating:

0.0 (0 votes)

TUCSON - In today's "Senior Style," our contributor, Gale Morgan from Splendido, stopped by with the seven things every senior citizen should have ready in case of an emergency.

Older adults are particular vulnerable to medical emergencies, accidents, diseases - even a bout with the flu or a fall can have serious consequences.

During the emergency, you may not be able to speak, or remember important information that family members or health care providers need to know.

Gale says these seven things may save your life in an emergency:

1. Your physicians' names and phone numbers. Your doctors will be able to provide specific details about your medical history, medications and other important facts that can guide the care provided by emergency room physicians and nurses. It's also wise to include the names and phone numbers of your emergency contacts so they can be notified.

2. Your birth date, social security number, and insurance details. Medical records and insurance information are often cataloged by birth date. Be sure to provide the names and phone numbers of your insurance providers, the policy numbers, and contact information. Have a copy of your Medicare card on hand.

3. A list of allergies and other medical conditions. An inventory of known allergies may save your life during an emergency - especially if you are allergic to a specific drug. It's also important to list your medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, as well as past surgeries and major medical procedures, such as a hip replacement. Indicate if you require prescription lenses, hearing aids, oxygen, or other medical devices.

4. Current medications and supplements. During an emergency, your current medications or supplements can determine your treatment options. For example, blood thinners can lead to heavy bleeding and some vitamins or herbal supplements could interact with medications administered by emergency personnel. Be sure to keep your medication list up-to-date and include dosage amounts.

5. An advance health care directive. Both a living will and a health care power of attorney are considered advance health care directives because they outline your wishes should you be unable to make medical decisions for yourself. Advance directives are instructions about such things as whether to use life-support machines or to attempt resuscitation. Understanding your wishes can help your family members and care providers make decisions in case of an emergency. You still have the right to give medical directions to physicians and other care providers as long as you are able to do so. An advance directive only becomes effective when you do not have the capacity to give, withdraw or withhold informed consent regarding your care.

6. A designated care provider for your pets. It's comforting to know that your pets will receive proper care while you are incapacitated. A trusted neighbor or family member can care for them or arrange a boarding service until you can care for your pets. Be sure to list this person as an emergency contact and provide the name and phone number of your pet's veterinarian.

7. A Last Will or Living Trust. You don't have to be wealthy to need a last will or living trust. A last will is used to distribute property to beneficiaries, specify last wishes, and name guardians for minor children. It is an important part of any estate plan. Without one, the courts will make these critical decisions for you. A living trust is used to transfer property to beneficiaries, but unlike a last will, it usually is not subject to probate court, which can take years and cost thousands in court fees. Talk to an attorney to create the documents needed to ensure your last wishes are fulfilled. Include your attorney's name and phone number in your list of emergency