Medical Emergencies
Medical Emergency: Falls
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among seniors, often resulting in fractures or head trauma.
Response:
Do not move them if they’re in pain—call emergency services. Monitor for signs of fracture or head injury.
Fall Prevention Additional Information
Fall Prevention:
Accidental falls in the home are a leading cause to health decline for older persons. There are many ways to avoid falls and to plan to reduce your risk. For more information visit the State of Alaska Department of Health Alaska Senior Fall Prevention Program.
Medical Emergency: Heart Attacks
Seniors are at high risk of experiencing a heart attack, and symptoms can be atypical (e.g., fatigue, nausea).
Response:
Call 911 immediately. Time is critical—don’t wait.
Heart Attack Additional Information
Medical Emergency: Strokes
Immediate treatment is critical for a stroke; watch for signs like facial drooping, arm weakness, or speech difficulty.
Response:
Call 911 immediately. Time is critical—don’t wait.
Stroke Additional Information
Medical Emergency: Respiratory Failure
Includes COPD flare-ups, pneumonia, or choking.
Response:
Obtain and take prescribed emergency medication. Call 911 immediately, provide First Aid.
Respiratory Failure Additional Information
Medical Emergency: Diabetic Emergencies
Diabetes if not regulated can fluxgate causing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or diabetic ketoacidosis (high blood sugar).
Response:
If low blood sugar, provide a fast-acting sugar (juice, glucose tabs, hard candy). Call 911 for help if they’re unconscious or unresponsive.
Diabetes Emergencies Additional Information
Medical Emergency: Severe infections
Severe types of infections can become server two examples are urinary tract infections (which may cause confusion), or sepsis.
Response:
Urinary Tract Infection: Assist to obtain treatment by primary physician or Urgent Care.
Sepsis: Assist to obtain treatment in urgent care or hospital.
Severe Infections Additional Information
Medical Emergencies: Be Prepared
Preparation: Medical ID
Ensure seniors wear a medical alert bracelet or carry ID with critical conditions and medications.
Medical ID Additional Information
Medical ID is a card or jewelry that is worn as a bracelet or necklace. That will tell First Responders about your medical condition. Several companies offer a variety of options to choose from such as American Medical ID, Medic Alert Foundation, and Lauren’s Hope.
Preparation: Emergency contact list
Keep visible on the refrigerator (This is where Emergency Responders are training to look first) and/or accessible near phones and entrances.
Emergency Contact List Additional Information
Emergency Contact Lists are extremely helpful when you are not able to provide details to First Responders. The list can be a physical list that you post on your refrigerator or listed in your cell phone contact. Free Emergency Contact template (PDF)
Preparation: Medication management
Use pill organizers and medication charts to prevent errors.
Medication Management Additional Information
Website association with video is www.mmLearn.org
Preparation: Regular check-ups
Helps catch issues like heart disease, diabetes, or osteoporosis early.