ER Visits: Preparedness

I could write every day on how to deal with hospitalizations. Why? Elderly adults often have multiple health issues which require a team; in the outpatient setting the individual physician is not able to interact as easily with other specialties.
According to Reuters there has been a 34% increase in ER visits among those over 65 in the last ten years.

I have one client who goes in at least once per month. In part his family physician does not know how to handle the natural aging and dying process. This client is 96. He was at home two weeks, and now back in the hospital again. This family knows the ER staff on a first name basis. He has not once been in critical condition. SO he sits for hours before getting admitted. His son misses work, and they both get hungry.

Here are a few tips to get thru the ER visit:

Medications- do not let the staff take the pills; it may be hours before you see the medications again. Keep a copy of the list and dosages for the staff.

Keep a supply of snacks handy; cheese crackers, small package of cookies, and a water bottle.

Keep on hand a book, deck of cards, or crossword puzzles- in large print. Boredom can effect your aging relatives mental state. Your senior loved one may appreciate activity not to mention the conversation.

Keep a pillow in the car- A long night may be in store.

Write down the names of staff members that have been helpful; let them know they are appreciated.

An ER visit is usually the first step to being admitted. Doctors forget what it is like to sit for hours with increasing anxiety over health.