Dealing with Your Aging Loved One’s Health Issues

If your loved one’s health declines or if they suffer a sudden setback, you may have to help make medical decisions. 

Talk to your loved one about naming you as their healthcare power of attorney. Make sure you clearly understand their wishes so that you will be prepared to make the decisions they would prefer if they become confused or even lose consciousness.

Get to know their doctors by getting your loved one’s permission to attend some appointments with them.

Keep the following information in a handy place such as your wallet, in the car, and at the office in the event of emergencies:

• Names, phone numbers and addresses of your loved one’s doctors, dentist and pharmacy
• Date and results of recent medical tests, such as X-rays, CT scans and MRIs
• Copies of any advance directives your loved one may have filled out, such as a living will or a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order
• Copies of health insurance policies and the front and back of all insurance cards, including the Medicare card
• A list of all medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, dosage amounts and instructions for taking them (time of day, with food or between meals, etc.)
• A complete health history on your loved one, including major illnesses, on-going conditions and family history of illness. You could ask your loved one to secure a copy for you; or, as your loved one’s healthcare power of attorney, you could request one yourself

For more information about power of attorney and to find downloadable forms, visit the AARP website.

Ready to take the next step? To learn more about how Friendship Village can help you and your loved ones Get Set 4 Life®, please call us at 847-490-6271 to speak with a Friendship Village Residency Counselor.