In these busy times, it is easy to get caught up in the routines and not remember the details. Medical information for an older person can be critical at certain times when it is least convenient to locate it. It is relatively easy to be prepared. When an urgency arises it will alleviate confusion and stress.
Here is a checklist that you can use to make sure you have as much information as possible. You may want to print this out – and maybe pass it on to others for whom you think it will be helpful.
Medical Information for ____________________
Emergency Contacts
Names and phone numbers of
– Family
– Medical professionals
Key personal facts
Date of birth
Social Security numbers
Medicare numbers
Supplemental insurance information
Medical information
Primary care physician: name, phone number and address
Specialists: name, phone number and address
Medications: name, dosage, when taken
Non-prescription: name, dosage, when taken
Medical history: past illnesses, surgeries and allergies
Family history: illnesses, causes of death for mother, father, siblings
Key Documents
Obtain copies of the following documents and keep them in a place where they are easily available to family members and physicians so that these key individuals may make decisions in accordance with your wishes and on behalf of your senior should he or she not be able to communicate those wishes at a critical time.
Medical Power of Attorney
Advance Health Care Directive
Living Will or Will
Power of Attorney
