Is Your First Aid Kit Stocked for Senior Emergencies?

Although you can buy a pre-packaged first aid kit at most drug stores, it’s important to inventory the kit to make sure it contains what you need for your senior loved one and his/her specific medical needs.

First, let’s cover the basics of any first aid kit. The Mayo Clinic provides an excellent list of first aid essentials. We’ve summarized below. When you shop for a kit, you may want to compare its contents with this list.

• Adhesive bandages and a roll of adhesive tape
• Sterile gauze pads and a roll
• Eye shield or pad
• Aluminum finger splint
• Instant hot/cold packs
• Cotton balls and swabs
• Non-latex gloves
• Petroleum jelly
• Safety pins
• Scissors and tweezers
• Thermometer
• Turkey baster
• Breathing barrier for CPR
• Medicine cup for correct dosage
• Hand sanitizer
• Antibiotic ointment
• Antiseptic solution
• Eye wash solution
• Calamine lotion
• Hydrocortisone cream

Second, make sure your kit contains medications, but confirm there are no interactions with these over-the-counter drugs for your loved ones.

• Aspirin
• Acetaminophen
• Ibuprofen
• Antihistamine
• Decongestants
• Anti-nausea
• Anti-diarrhea
• Antacid
• Laxative

Finally, talk to your elderly loved ones’ doctor to find out if there are any items that are important for them, based on previous accidents or higher risk due to medical diagnoses.

If you are a caregiver, make sure you know how to use the first aid kit by getting certified. Are accidents a concern? 5 Star Home Caregivers are all First Aid and CPR certified. They are trained to handle senior emergencies. Contact us to learn more.