There are many good reasons for a family member to keep track of an elderly parent’s medical information. Updated documents enable the caregiver, the senior, and other family members to monitor medications and treatments. The information is also helpful if the senior sees more than one physician. Caregivers can use the following methods to organize vital information.
Compile a List of Medications
It’s a good idea to create a database of your loved one’s medications. Include the dosage, the date prescribed, why the drug was prescribed, and how often the medication needs to be refilled. Add possible adverse reactions or side effects as well. The information should also display the name of the prescribing physician and the pharmacy. The database can be created on a personal computer, and a printed copy should be taken to each medical appointment. Portable laptops and tablets are other options worth considering.
Preparing a list of medications can be a difficult task, especially if you have other important duties to tend to. If you’re the primary caregiver for a senior family member and are looking for professional senior home care, Senior Stride Home Care should be your top choice. Our dedicated and compassionate caregivers are committed to helping older adults address their health issues and enjoy a higher quality of life in the golden years.
Start a Notebook
Write progress notes during medical appointments along with any visible changes in health or medication side effects. A section in the notebook can be used to record routine vital signs. You can also create separate sections to make notes for each physician or therapist seen. The notebook can be used to write down questions or concerns. Leave plenty of space to write down answers given by health care providers.
Create a Medical Information Folder
Create a folder to store a list of your loved one’s current medications, treatments, and lab reports. The information provides a clear medical history and crucial details family members can use to monitor medical conditions and treatments. By regularly reviewing and updating the information in the folder, you can help your loved one’s physicians get a better picture of the effectiveness of treatment or the need for a change in therapy.
Attending regular doctor’s appointments is just one of the many ways aging adults can boost their wellbeing. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Oshkosh, WI, Senior Stride Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Maintain Copies of All Legal Documents
You must also keep copies of insurance policies, powers of attorney, advance directives, and other pertinent information in the event of a doctor’s appointment, hospitalization, or medical emergency.
Use Online Websites
Many websites enable family members to keep track of their loved ones’ medical information and offer a convenient way to keep all the information in one location. These sites offer calendars for keeping track of appointments and pages for entering vital signs, vaccinations, and medications. Users can also enter emergency contacts, physician details, and pharmacy information. Many sites enable users to enter laboratory test results and imaging studies along with medications and treatments. When necessary, the information can also be sent to a health care provider.
Caring for older adults with serious health issues can take a toll on a caregiver’s health. Family caregivers need to care for their own wellbeing. If you’re caring for an aging loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide respite care. Oshkosh families who want to prevent burnout can turn to Senior Stride Home. One of our professional caregivers can assist your loved one at home while you take a nap, go to work, run errands, or go on vacation. Call us today to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.