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How to Prevent Medical Emergencies

  • Woman with DaughterEvery family member should take a CPR course.  
  • Use MedicAlert medical identification to identify medical problems, medications and allergies.
  • Make sure medications are taken properly. Measure out each day’s dose. Make sure pills do not get mixed.
  • Have medications checked by a physician at least twice a year to make sure the dosage is still correct and that there are no harmful interactions. 
  • Have a physician identify, manage and prevent medical problems.
  • Install safety rails in the tub and shower.
  • Prevent falls by not using throw rugs and steering clear of obstructions. 
  • Consider using a name tag with your phone number in case of unconsciousness, dementia or disorientation.
  • Talk to a doctor about an advance medical directive or Living Will, which allows someone to make choices about medical care in advance before they become too sick to communicate. In some cases, a Living Will allows you to choose someone to make decisions for you if you are unable to do so. For information on Advance Directives or Living Walls, ask your doctor or attorney or contact the state medical society, the state bar association, your local chapter of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) or Choice in Dying, which offers state-specific Advance Directives at 800-989-WILL. In addition, MedicAlert Foundation is a recognized provider of Advance Directive orders. Certain states have legislated the MedicAlert ID to serve as Do Not Resucitate “DNR” and Physicians Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (“POLST”) notification. For more information, contact MedicAlert Foundation at 800-ID-ALERT (800-432-5378).

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