As your elderly loved one gets older, there is more of a chance that they might need to visit the hospital. This could be due to a health condition, a fall, or a number of other reasons. With this being said, it is important that you know more about elderly people and hospital visits.

Common Reasons for Hospital Visits in Elderly Population

As mentioned, there are numerous reasons why your elderly loved one might need to visit the hospital.

Many elderly people will have a fall or injury at some point. As people get older, their body isn’t as strong as it used to be. When they fall, there is more of a risk that they will get an injury. These injuries could be mild to severe. If your elderly loved one does fall, it is important that they get checked out. If you find that they are having any issues, you should have them seek medical care.

Strokes are common in elderly people, as well. This is one of the most common reasons that elderly people visit emergency rooms. These can be very serious and sometimes they are fatal. If you recognize any of the symptoms of a stroke in your elderly loved one such as face drooping, speech issues, dizziness, or numbness, they should get emergency medical care.

Chest pains are very common in elderly people, too. There are numerous reasons why your elderly loved one might experience chest pain. It could be something minor or it could signify something more serious such as a heart issue. It is important that your elderly loved one gets medical care right away if they are experiencing any chest pain.

Now that you know more about some of the things that cause elderly people to go to the hospital, you may also need to know how to handle these visits.

Handling Hospital Visits with Your Elderly Loved One

As a family caregiver, it is important that you know how to handle hospital visits with your elderly loved one.

First, you will need to be familiar with your elderly loved one’s health history. You need to know about any challenges they have in various settings outside of their home. For instance, they might get anxious when someone touches them. The doctors at the hospital need to know about this. If an elder care provider takes your loved one to the hospital, they need to know about these things, as well.

You should always make sure that your elderly loved one has a full list of the medications they are taking. You and their elder care providers should have this information, as well. This way, no matter who takes them to the hospital, can relay the information to the doctors.

Conclusion

Now that you know more about handling hospital visits for your elderly loved one, you can be prepared if they need to go to the hospital in the future.

Sources
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/going-hospital-tips-dementia-caregivers

If you or an aging loved one is considering elder care in Purcellville, VA, please contact the caring staff at Assisting Hands today. (703) 782-3655.