Keeping Senior Citizens Safe & Independent
Medical costs are skyrocketing and since a large percentage of these costs are from Medicare patients, we the tax payers get to foot the bill. Repeat visits to the hospital—especially by seniors; cost Americans more than $17 billion each year. As many as 1-in-5 Medicare patients return to the hospital within 30 days of being discharged. We need to be proactive in helping our seniors stay out of the hospital, remain safe and independent. In order to maintain your California medical insurance, it is important to stay as healthy and active as possible! It’s important to get involved with a great organization to make new friends and have events to look forward to! Here is Orange, we have a wonderful Orange Senior Center where thy host weekly events and activities.
Here are some valuable tips to keep seniors out of the hospital:
- Always Make that Follow up Appointment
Follow-up is essential especially for patients who have chronic illnesses. Arrange for transportation, call the doctor and write down the date, time and location of the doctor’s office. Get the patient to his/her appointment within the first week of discharge.
Bring a complete list of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and supplements, including the dosage levels, to the physician’s office.
- Get an Advocate
Have a trusted friend or family member accompany them through the hospital discharge process. An advocate is also helpful by going with them on regular primary care physician visits.
- Maintain your Independence
We tend to depend more on others as we age, but living with dignity and independence can help us maintain overall health and well-being. Always look for ways to help them keep their independence.
- Ask for What You Need
To make sure there is great communication, write down questions and don’t leave until you get the answers you need.
Written by:Rhonda Remland
Image: Orange Senior Center, Orange CA
