Tip #4: Keep a “To Go” kit ready and easy to grab
Your To Go kit should include two main groups of things.
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One group will include paperwork, such as:
Advance health-care directives such as a Living Will and copies of the medical order forms
Common medical orders forms such as the DNR (Do-Not-Resuscitate) and POLST (Physician Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment)
A medication list
A copy of your medical power of attorney form
It’s never a bad idea to have a copy of their ID card and insurance card as well
The other main group of things to put inside of your To Go bag are items that will make the ER visit less boring for you and for your person — things that might make you both more comfortable. For you, items like a phone charger, book, snacks and water — maybe a small travel blanket or neck pillow. Also pack a pen or pencil and pad of paper to take notes and document important things. For your person, take something that makes them comfortable or reminds them of home — a blanket, stuffed animal, something to fidget with or a pillow perhaps. You may also want to consider a pair of glasses, a cheap watch or assistive hearing devices.
Store your To Go bag in your car or right by your front door. You want it to be in a place where you can easily grab it. Anyone who cares for your person should know where the To Go kit is stored.
When my husband was diagnosed with FTD, the dr offered meds for memory and for behavioral. My husband declined, and I agreed. We rarely take meds for anything. The memory clinic recently asked for a 6 month update, and I sent them a list of how he has been acting. Most of the time he is fine, cooperative, and reasonable. But he has moments, like yesterday, I didn't turn the corner quick enough for him while driving, so he yelled at me and then refused to talk to me for the rest of the day or do anything for himself. Another time I wouldn't change lanes when he wanted me to, so he didn't speak to me for the rest of the day, and took off as soon as we got home. Fortunately he only went to McDonalds, and I could track him with the Life360 on my phone. Or the time I wanted out of the store when it was packed with Christmas shoppers on a Sunday, figuring I could come back during the week when it was less crowded, he didn't speak to me for 2 days, refused to eat and went to ...
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