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What to do during an Emergency when Senior Care is Required

Senior Care in Elk Grove CA

An emergency situation can arise at any time, whether a person is relying on senior care or not. Depending on how prepared the senior care service provider or family member is can make a world of difference in the ultimate outcome.  For any family member who is taking care of an elderly loved one, it’s a good idea to pay attention to potential emergency situations before they arise. March is American Red Cross Month and that means it’s a good time to be reminded of the value of preparedness.

There are numerous classes, programs, and other things that the American Red Cross offers to help people of all ages become better prepared to help themselves and others during a number of emergency situations.  Whether it’s a health emergency, an accident, a natural disaster, or anything else, the more prepared a person is, the more likely they will be able to help themselves and the elderly individual in their life get through the crisis.

Here are a few things anyone can do during a potential emergency when it comes to senior care.

1. Evaluate the situation clearly.

A family member may be stressed and anxious about a situation, may see their loved one who is on the ground and unresponsive, and begin to panic. Depending on the situation, how they react can have a direct impact on the ultimate outcome.

2. Get help as soon as possible.

The senior might have fallen, had a heart attack, or is dealing with another crisis, but the first thing anyone should do is call for help. Whether there is another person in the house at that time or it means running to grab the phone, the sooner they get on the phone and get help on their way, the better it’s going to be for the senior.

3. Try to remain calm.

Even though the person’s heart is probably racing and their hands are shaking, it’s important to try to remain as calm as possible, especially if they are talking to 911 emergency dispatchers.  Their ability to relate the exact information the emergency dispatcher needs to understand will help them provide the right level of care for the senior until emergency services arrive.

4. Listen to the directions from the 911 operator clearly.

Panicking and thinking the emergency dispatcher or operator doesn’t know what he or she is talking about is a recipe for potential disaster. Pay attention to these directions and follow them clearly. These are trained professionals that have been dealing with these situations for many years.

If an emergency arises when providing any type of care for a senior, it can cause stress and anxiety, but the calmer the caregiver is at that time, the better it’s going to be for them and the senior who is relying on them in this emergency situation.

If you or an aging loved one needs senior care services in Elk Grove, CA, remember Senior Home Care Services. Call us at (916) 514-7006 for more information.

Jay Bloodsworth
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