5 Important Contacts to Add for Elderly Care

Caring for seniors and loved ones can be a daunting task that requires a well-structured support system. As seniors age, their needs become more complicated, ranging from health care to legal issues, emergency relief, and emotional well-being.

One of the best ways to ensure their safety is by keeping a list of important contacts who can provide immediate support. When people are ill, and most importantly, when they are old, they forget critical information that can easily lead to medical error.

Having quick access to the right professionals can make all the difference in a time-sensitive emergency. This blog covers five important contacts that every senior or their caregiver should have on hand in case an emergency strikes.

1. Seniors Helpline for Emergency and Emotional Support

Emergencies can happen anytime, and for seniors, even small incidents like a fall or sudden dizziness can become life-threatening if help is not readily available. That’s where a seniors’ helpline or emergency response service comes in.

For instance, if you live in Canada, adding a helpline for Canadian seniors is an excellent option. Canadian seniors’ emergency helpline offers a 24/7 emergency response at a simple press of a button, connecting the seniors directly to a trained professional. 

Such an instant helpline makes it a much-needed emergency solution, especially for seniors who live alone. But beyond that, a senior’s helpline can also provide emotional support. Aging is often a difficult phase of life, and having someone on the call, even for a few minutes, means a lot.

Many seniors’ helplines also provide support for mental health, advice on financial aid and guidance around issues of elderly abuse.

2. Primary Care Physician – First Line of Defense for Health Issues

As seniors age, regular medical checkups become increasingly necessary. A primary care physician (PCP) is usually the first person to go to if they have any health concerns. They help manage chronic diseases, administer vaccinations and perform routine screenings. 

For instance, a reliable PCP would detect the early onset of diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, which are common among seniors.

However, besides illness management, a good PCP also practices illness prevention. They provide personalized advice based on the patient’s illnesses and social activities. Many times, patients are referred to different specialists, e.g., a Cardiologist, neurologist, or geriatrician.

In emergencies, having easy access to a senior’s primary doctor can prevent ER visits that could be handled over the phone or through telehealth. Also, keeping a list of all medications currently being taken and past medical history on hand can help doctors make fast and informed decisions.

3. Home Care Services – Helping Seniors Maintain Independence

As mobility decreases, seniors may need help with the daily tasks of cooking, bathing, and medication management. Family members frequently step up to provide this assistance, but many times, professional home care services are needed to help seniors maintain their independence.

Different levels of assistance are offered by home care providers depending on the needs of the senior. Some seniors simply need help with housekeeping and meal preparation, while others require skilled nursing care to manage a medical condition such as diabetes or dementia.

For those that have a lower income, some states and provinces offer Medicaid or government-funded home care help. There are similar programs throughout America and Canada that can help seniors maintain their independence.

4. Legal Advisor – Protecting Seniors’ Rights and Future

Legal issues become more important as we grow older. Wills, estate planning, power of attorney (POA), and advance healthcare directives are all legal safeguards seniors should have in place to ensure their wishes are carried out. Therefore, it is highly crucial for seniors to establish a relationship with an informed attorney practicing elder law.

Power of attorney (POA) designates someone the senior trusts to make financial and medical decisions on their behalf if they cannot do so themselves. 

Statistics continually show that many seniors are increasingly falling victim to scams each year. Legal advisors act as advocates for seniors who have been victims of fraud or financial scams by regularly examining financial accounts and other legal documents.

5. Community Support Groups – Combating Loneliness and Staying Engaged

Socializing is just as important to seniors as physical health. Isolation and loneliness can lead to anxiety, depression, and even cognitive decline. It’s really important for seniors to maintain an active connection with their community for a more vibrant lifestyle.

There are many different kinds of senior support groups, clubs, and volunteer organizations that actually help get seniors out of their homes and socialize. These support groups may pair volunteers with seniors who may need regular visits or phone calls for companionship.

Many communities also have recreation centers that offer activities, exercise classes, and educational programs for seniors. Participating in activities keeps seniors connected to other people and can also improve their overall health.

Final Thoughts

Aging is a journey, and no senior should have to navigate it alone. With these five valuable contacts on hand, older adults and their loved ones can feel more supported in dealing with any situation that comes their way.

Building a strong support network — from the top emergency response services to your loved one’s favorite doctor, caregiver, lawyer, or community group— will ensure they receive the care they deserve and save you stress.

If you have an aging friend or family member, take some time to add these contacts to their elderly care.

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