Before you or your loved one leaves the hospital, make sure you understand:

✓ What was the diagnosis?

✓ What medications have changed?

✓ What medications should be stopped?

✓ What symptoms should prompt a call to the doctor?

✓ When is the follow-up appointment?

✓ Are any specialists needed?

✓ Are home health services recommended?

✓ Are there activity restrictions?

✓ Is physical therapy needed?

✓ Who should I contact if I have questions after discharge?

Taking a few minutes to ask these questions can help prevent confusion, complications, and unnecessary hospital readmissions.

As our loved ones age, subtle changes can signal they may need extra assistance.

Watch for:

• Missed medications

• Frequent falls or balance issues

• Unopened mail or unpaid bills

• Poor personal hygiene

• Weight loss or spoiled food in the refrigerator

• Increased confusion or forgetfulness

• Difficulty attending appointments

• Social isolation

• Changes in mood or behavior

• Repeated hospitalizations

Early intervention can help older adults remain safe, independent, and healthy for longer.

Use this checklist to help reduce medication errors:

□ Keep an updated medication list.

□ Include prescription medications, vitamins, and supplements.

□ Bring the medication list to every appointment.

□ Use one pharmacy whenever possible.

□ Review medications with your healthcare provider regularly.

□ Check expiration dates.

□ Store medications safely.

□ Ask questions if you do not understand why a medication is prescribed.

□ Report side effects promptly.

□ Never stop a medication without consulting your provider.

Good medication management is one of the most important ways to protect health and prevent hospitalizations.

Getting the most out of a medical appointment starts with preparation.

Before the appointment:

✓ Bring an updated medication list.

✓ Write down current symptoms and concerns.

✓ Keep a record of recent hospitalizations or emergency room visits.

✓ Bring insurance cards and identification.

✓ Prepare a list of questions ahead of time.

Questions to consider asking:

• What is the diagnosis?

• Are there any new medications?

• What side effects should we watch for?

• Are additional tests needed?

• When should we follow up?

• Are there lifestyle changes that may help?

After the appointment:

✓ Review instructions before leaving.

✓ Schedule follow-up appointments.

✓ Update family members as needed.

✓ Keep a copy of any new treatment plans.

Being prepared helps ensure important concerns are addressed and improves communication with healthcare providers.

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults, but many falls can be prevented.

Around the Home

□ Remove loose rugs and clutter from walkways.

□ Ensure hallways and stairways are well lit.

□ Install grab bars in bathrooms.

□ Use non-slip mats in showers and tubs.

□ Keep frequently used items within easy reach.

□ Secure electrical cords away from walking paths.

Health & Wellness

□ Have vision checked regularly.

□ Review medications with your healthcare provider.

□ Wear supportive, non-slip footwear.

□ Stay physically active to maintain strength and balance.

□ Use mobility aids as recommended.

When to Seek Help

If your loved one has experienced:

• Multiple falls

• Increased unsteadiness

• Dizziness

• New weakness

• Fear of falling

It may be time to discuss additional support or a safety assessment.

A few simple changes can significantly reduce the risk of falls and help older adults remain safe and independent.