As you or your loved one's illness progresses, or as the symptoms of chronic conditions become more debilitating, you may find yourself facing an increasing number of medical appointments, trips to the ER, hospital admissions, and possibly transitions to rehabilitation centers and skilled nursing facilities. Each of these encounters presents its own set of challenges and requirements. To enhance your experience and ensure that you are well-prepared for every scenario, it is imperative to have certain information, documents, and supplies on hand and readily accessible. This guide will outline what both patients and their supportive loved ones should bring. By gathering these materials in advance, you can help make each visit as smooth and satisfying as possible, reducing stress, and allowing you to focus on care and recovery.
Necessities for Every Older Adult Medical Visit
When managing the complexities of any health event—be it a doctor’s office visit, an emergency room admission, or a transition to a rehabilitation facility—it's important to come prepared. At a minimum, you should always carry three key things:
patience and a good attitude,
an advocate in the form of a family member or friend, and
your comprehensive medical documentation and information.
So, we'll delve into why each of these is crucial, how they can be utilized effectively during your encounters, and the benefits they bring not just to the patient, but also to their loved ones. This preparation ensures that every encounter is as smooth and productive as possible.
The Power of Patience and a Positive Attitude in Healthcare Settings
Getting what you need from the healthcare system can be a frustrating and confusing experience, requiring numerous interactions with professionals across multiple locations. Ideally, every doctor, nurse, aide, and administrator would be helpful and supportive but the reality is that many healthcare organizations are short-staffed and plagued with high turnover that disrupts efficient care, leaving remaining personnel burnt-out. The best way for you to address these challenges, as in many service interactions, is a positive demeanor and a patient attitude.
This is akin to the benefit of a friendly approach with a gate agent or customer service representative—you often "catch more flies with honey." In my personal experience with dad, maintaining a friendly and pleasant attitude with medical professionals, led to warm and welcoming care from the staff that displayed an eagerness to assist us further. Conversely, many friends have their shared challenges when helping family members who became angry, confused, or aggressive, resulting in avoidance by staff and less than satisfactory care outcomes. Patience, understanding, and a good attitude helps in foster a supportive environment and positive experience. Additionally, in situations involving difficult interactions, having a calm and supportive advocate present to help diffuse tension can be invaluable.
The Role of Your Personal Advocates During Care Consultations
Whether it’s a family member or friend, having an advocate by your side during healthcare interactions can greatly enhance the quality and effectiveness of your care. Hospitals can be intimidating and isolating environments, particularly when you are undergoing tests or waiting for procedures. While it's natural to hesitate about imposing on others, the benefits of having someone at your side cannot be overstated. An advocate can serve several important roles:
Communication Facilitator. They can provide vital information to your medical team about your condition and history, ensuring nothing significant is overlooked. This is particularly valuable if you are too ill, stressed, or incapacitated to effectively communicate yourself.
Companion and Support. Simply having someone there can be a great relief. Whether it's engaging in conversation to pass the time, sitting quietly together, or managing the stress of waiting, their presence can make the experience less upsetting.
Assistant in Getting Help. In busy locations, it might be challenging to catch the attention of the staff. An advocate can help flag down nurses or doctors when you need assistance.
Recorder and Interpreter. They can take detailed notes during consultations with doctors and nurses, for later review and sharing with other family members. Advocates may also help process the information provided and can ask clarifying questions in real time, ensuring you fully understand your treatment options and the details of your care.
Decision Support. During critical conversations, having a trusted person to discuss alternatives with can provide reassurance and help you make informed choices based on your best interests.
Navigational Aid. Especially in large facilities, having someone to help navigate the complex corridors and different departments can save time and reduce confusion.
Emotional Anchor. An advocate can provide emotional support, helping to keep you calm and reassured throughout your encounter.
Encouraging a loved one to take on the role of an advocate can significantly impact your healthcare experience, ensuring you feel supported, understood, and well cared for every step of the way.
Essential Medical Documents and Information Checklist
Whenever you’re checking in or talking with your medical team, having the right documentation can streamline the process and help guarantee you receive the most accurate care. Studies have shown that up to 80% of diagnoses can be made based on your medical history and a physical examination alone—before any tests are administered. Therefore, it's crucial to be well-prepared with detailed information. Here is a checklist of the primary materials you should always have ready.
List of Current Medications, Vitamins, and Supplements. Maintain an up-to-date list that includes the name of each prescription, vitamin, and supplement, along with the dosage, frequency, and specific instructions such as time of day and whether you take them with meals or specific beverages. This detailed information helps providers manage your treatments without drug interactions and delivering continuity of care. If you need a sample and blank document, you can download it here.
Log of Major Health Events. Keep a record of significant events such as heart attacks, strokes, and major surgeries along with the dates—month and year—of the occurrence. This history provides a comprehensive timeline, aiding providers in making informed decisions about your emergency and ongoing care needs. See a sample here of what we used along with a document you can use for your own tracking.
Record of Allergies. Document any known allergies to medications, foods, or environmental factors such as latex and cleaning chemicals. Describe the type of reaction experienced (e.g., rash, anaphylaxis, gastrointestinal upset). This information is urgent for preventing adverse reactions and guiding providers in choosing safe alternatives.
Access to Your Doctor(s) and Insurance Websites. Having your login information for patient and insurance portals allows you and your team quick access to your records and insurance coverage details.
Copies of Recent Reports and Results. Always keep handy any recent test results or reports from treatments and procedures. While having these documents may not prevent repeat testing due to various medical and procedural reasons, they provide valuable historical baseline data that can assist in quicker, more accurate assessments and decision-making.
Names of Personal Physicians. Provide a list of all physicians involved in your care. This can help different clinicians coordinate effectively and may provide further clues as to how to develop your goals of care plan.
Emergency Contact Information. Always carry a contact list of family members or friends you want to reach out to in an emergency.
Health Insurance Card. Carrying your insurance card with membership numbers and “800” numbers can expedite the administrative processes at doctor’s offices, hospitals, or clinics.
Driver’s License or Other Valid Identification. ID is often required for verification purposes.
Advanced Directives and Medical Power of Attorney. These documents are indispensable for making sure your medical goals, treatment priorities, and personal wishes are honored, especially in situations where you might not be able to communicate your preferences yourself. See these blog posts to learn more:
Keeping these documents organized and readily accessible, ideally in a small bag or a digital format that can be quickly grabbed on the way, insures that you can provide professionals with the information needed to make a complete diagnosis and plan an effective treatment. Remember to update these documents regularly to reflect any new prescriptions, conditions, or illnesses.
Prepare to Give a Two-Minute Recap
To facilitate efficient communication with doctors and nurses who are often under significant time constraints, prepare a quick recap of your current situation. Here is how you can put one together:
Start with when you last felt normal
Describe what symptoms developed and in what order
Explain what you were doing at the time
Talk about how the symptoms have progressed
Share what concerns prompted you to seek care
Having a concise 30-second and a more detailed two-minute version of this recap can be immensely helpful. Begin with the short summary and allow physicians to ask questions to gather more details. Don't hesitate to repeat your story as needed—each iteration might help you remember and communicate urgent details that you may have forgotten which could further influence your care.
Packing an Emergency Room Go-Bag for Seniors
In addition to what has been previously detailed for scheduled appointments, there are specific things you'll want to include specifically for emergency room scenarios. An ER occurrence can be unpredictable and stressful, with potentially long wait times and a high degree of uncertainty. Being prepared with a pre-packed go-bag provides a sense of control and reduces stress. This section will suggest what you should pack in your ER go-bag, focusing on enhancing communication, ease, and readiness for any accident, illness, or injury incident.
Keeping Connected in the ER with Your Phone, Headphones, and Charger
In the unpredictable environment of an emergency room, having your cellphone, headphones, and an extra charger is invaluable. A cellphone keeps you connected, allowing you to update family and friends on your status, participate in conference calls with those not present, and field or ask pressing questions when situations are rapidly changing. The importance of an extra charger cannot be overstated, as long ER waits can drain battery life when you need your phone most. Headphones are equally indispensable because they not only help maintain privacy during potentially sensitive phone conversations but also allow you to listen to music or watch videos, providing a welcome distraction while a loved one is undergoing procedures. These tools collectively allow you to manage communications discreetly and keep informed, making the experience as bearable as possible.
Keeping Warm with a Blanket, Sweater, or Jacket
One or more of these—a sweater, jacket, or small, light blanket—are great additions to your emergency go-bag. Healthcare settings, including emergency rooms, hospital rooms, rehabilitation centers, and skilled nursing facilities, are known for maintaining cooler temperatures, which can be quite unpleasant. Opt for lightweight and easily foldable products that can easily fit in your bag allowing you to easily adjust to varied temperatures during long waits or moving between departments. Having a warm layer on hand not only provides physical warmth but also a sense of familiarity and security in environments that can often feel cold and sterile.
What Seniors Bring for a Hospital, Skilled Nursing, or Rehab Stay
When you or a loved one is admitted to a hospital, rehabilitation center, or skilled nursing facility, you can bring more personal stuff to significantly enhance wellbeing and meet your needs. In addition to the necessities detailed for every appointment and a trip to the emergency room, there are several possessions you can pack for an extended period away from home. These options not only address basic needs and hygiene but also help manage a longer duration away from home. This discussion equips you with a list of other gear to make your time as productive as possible, from personal care supplies to entertainment that can help pass the time.
Eye Masks and Ear Plugs
For seniors who are familiar with hospital environments, eye masks and ear plugs have become indispensable items during their stays. The constant hustle and bustle of a hospital—be it the glaring lights that never seem to dim or the incessant beeps and alarms from medical equipment—can severely disrupt sleep. Experienced seniors bring eye masks and ear plugs to mitigate these disturbances, creating a more controlled, serene environment conducive to sleep.
By shielding themselves from the hospital's disruptive light and noise, seniors can enhance their quality of rest. Adequate sleep is crucial, not just for comfort, but as a key component of the healing process, allowing the body to repair itself more efficiently. Eye masks help block out unwanted light, while ear plugs reduce noise, together ensuring that these seasoned hospital visitors get the crucial restorative sleep they need to aid their recovery.
Personal Equipment and Expensive Prescriptions
Bring equipment your loved one might need, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair and reading glasses or hearing aids.
A bag with all your medications, especially those that are expensive because the hospital may not be able to provide those. For example, my father was using a prescription drug for which we had gone through the process to get financial support. It cost $6,000. His hospital and skilled nursing facility didn’t have access to the drug at the discounted amount and asked us to bring it as they could not provide it.
Personal Hygiene Products
Pack travel-sized toiletries such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, razor, and hair products in a kit bag like what you would take on a vacation. These toiletries, and things like hairbrushes and combs, can help you feel refreshed and more like yourself during a prolonged hospitalization. Additionally, consider including wet wipes quick cleanups and hand sanitizer to reduce infection risks.
Comfortable Clothing and Footwear for Patients and Visitors
When staying at a hospital, skilled nursing facility, or rehabilitation center, it is beneficial for both patients and their visitors to wear comfortable clothing and footwear. Patients are often allowed to start wearing some personal clothes so you should opt for outfits that facilitate ease of movement and comfort. Examples include loose-fitting pants and soft tops with front openings. It's advisable to include a sweater or jacket as temperatures can vary within these facilities and you may want one after completing a strenuous therapy session. Tight or restrictive garments should be avoided because you may be sitting for long periods, walking the halls, or participating in therapy sessions.
For footwear, choose options that are practical and easy to slip on and off, such as sneakers or cozy slippers. Structured footwear is usually necessary for physical therapy sessions to provide adequate support. Likewise, occupational therapists will focus on how-to put-on shoes and tie laces or use Velcro straps. Slippers or socks with non-slip grips are ideal for general wear within your room to prevent falls and keep your feet warm.
Visitors should also consider comfort when planning their attire, as they may spend extended periods sitting on hard or uncomfortable chairs or need to navigate large facility complexes. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for moving around the facility, whether accompanying a patient to various appointments or handling tasks such as picking up prescriptions or meals. This focus on comfort helps reduce physical strain and enhances the overall experience during visits.
Entertainment and Distractions
Bring a book, magazine, or a fully charged tablet with headphones to help pass the time and keep your mind occupied. Consider downloading calming music, podcasts, or guided meditations to help reduce stress and anxiety during your wait. Most rooms have a television, but they may not offer your favorite channels. Depending on WiFi availability, streaming could be possible but downloading your shows directly onto a device is preferable so you don’t have to rely on cellular data. And don’t forget the charger.
It may also be helpful to bring a laptop if you need to get some work done. But keep in mind it may be noisy and there will be many interruptions, so it will be difficult to work remotely and also engage with doctors, nurses, and aides when they come to your room or bedside. Think of it like working on the road.
Snacks, Drinks, and Change for Hospital Visits
Extended trips to the ER or long hours spent visiting loved ones in the hospital necessitate packing non-perishable snacks and a water bottle to stay hydrated and maintain energy levels. Opt for healthy choices such as granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit, which provide a sustained energy boost without the subsequent sugar crash. Fruits and some vegetables are also a good choice. However, including some comfort foods in a lunch bag can also help alleviate stress during these trying times, even if they are less healthy. Choose snacks that are individually packaged and easy to eat without the need for utensils; and remember to pack napkins and wipes for convenience. Remember you may also be able to get utensils and paper goods in the cafeteria.
Despite many medical centers now featuring food courts with diverse dining options, you might still find it more practical to use floor-specific vending machines, especially if you cannot leave the patient's side for long. These machines may not accept debit or credit cards, so it's wise to carry small bills—$1s, $5s, and $10s. Be prepared for any change returned in coins, which can be cumbersome to carry around. Keeping some change handy ensures you can quickly access snacks and drinks from these machines without hassle.
Items to Avoid Bringing to the Hospital or ER
When rushing to the ER or preparing for an extended time in the hospital, it's important to be mindful of what to leave at home to avoid stressful and potentially costly situations.
Valuables such as wallets, cash, credit cards, and jewelry are particularly vulnerable to loss, misplacement, or theft within the busy and often chaotic environment.
Cigarettes, alcohol, illegal drugs, and firearms should not be brought to healthcare environments, as they are typically prohibited.
Electronic devices including patient tablets, cameras, and radios, that cannot be securely stored should be taken home by visiting family or friends.
Staff will likely collect these items and give them to a trusted companion for safe keeping.
By leaving these out of your bag, you and your loved ones avoid unnecessary complications. If you aren’t sure what to leave at home you can ask the staff or review their website for a list of prohibited things and activities.
Contingency Plan to Handle Duties During Hospitalization
When preparing for the possibility of hospitalization, it's smart to have a comprehensive plan in place for managing your responsibilities during your absence. A contingency plan not only eases your mind but also guarantees uninterrupted care for your dependents, pets, and household. Here are some considerations to include in your plan:
Family and Dependents. If you are responsible for children or elderly relatives, identify who can take over these duties in your absence. This might be other family members, friends, or professional caregivers. For grandparents who are primary caregivers, having a list of potential babysitters or reaching out to other family members to step in is vital. Similarly, if parents are out of town and you are temporarily caring for your grandchildren, make sure there is a contingency plan in place for their care.
Pets. Beloved animals require regular feeding, exercise, and possibly medication. Arrange for someone you trust to take care of your pets. This could be a neighbor, friend, or a professional pet sitter. Make sure they have access to your home and understand your pet’s routines and any special instructions.
Home Responsibilities. Ensure that regular home maintenance tasks are covered. This could include watering plants, collecting mail, and managing any scheduled appointments (like repairs or maintenance services). If you expect to be hospitalized during adverse weather conditions, arrangements for tasks like snow removal or lawn care should also be considered.
Financial and Legal Affairs. Organize your financial affairs so that bills and obligations (like rent, utilities, and credit card payments) are handled in your absence. You might set up automatic payments or designate a trusted family member or financial advisor to manage your finances temporarily. It’s also wise to give a trusted individual access to any necessary legal documents, such as powers of attorney or advance directives, should decisions need to be made on your behalf.
By proactively addressing these aspects, you can reduce the stress and disruption that an unexpected and lengthy hospital admission can cause. Planning allows you to focus on your recovery, knowing that everything at home is being managed effectively.
Maximizing Comfort and Efficiency in Healthcare Settings
This comprehensive guide has been meticulously crafted to serve as a foundational resource to enhance your experiences during healthcare visits, whether they are planned or unexpected. Starting with the essentials for any medical interaction, we have outlined the key items you should always have on hand, setting the stage for efficient and effective visits. As the potential for more complex needs arises, such as during unplanned ER visits or extended stays in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, or rehabilitation centers, we've expanded the list to include additional personal items that cater specifically to these scenarios.
Furthermore, we've provided detailed advice on what items to leave at home to avoid complications and ensure the safety of your belongings. Recognizing the challenges that come with managing responsibilities during prolonged absences from home, we've also included guidance on creating a robust contingency plan. This ensures that while you focus on recovery or supporting a loved one, your home and dependents are well cared for, eliminating additional stress.
By using this post as your go-to guide, you can prepare thoroughly for any healthcare situation, ensuring all visits are as comfortable, stress-free, and positive as possible. We encourage you to use this resource as a starting point to build your personalized healthcare preparation strategy, tailored to meet your specific needs and those of your loved ones.
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