Home First Aid Kit Needs for Seniors
If you’re taking care of an older family member at home, you need to be prepared for anything, especially when it comes to their health. Having a well-stocked first aid kit and emergency medical file helps you have a safety net in place–just in case.
Whether it’s a scratch, sudden fever or another minor health issue, your senior loved one might need help at a moment’s notice. Having that first aid kit stocked means you’re ready to tackle whatever comes your way and keep them safely and soundly aging in place at home.
First Aid Kit Essentials for Seniors
The first items you should stock in any first aid kit are the “essentials”—the items commonly needed for most minor health occurrences. First aid supplies recommended by the American Red Cross include:
- 2 absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches)
- 25 adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
- 1 adhesive cloth tape (10 yards x 1 inch)
- 5 antibiotic ointment packets (approximately 1 gram)
- 5 antiseptic wipe packets
- 2 packets of aspirin (81 mg each)
- 1 emergency blanket
- 1 breathing barrier (with one-way valve)
- 1 instant cold compress
- 2 pair of nonlatex gloves (size: large)
- 2 hydrocortisone ointment packets (approximately 1 gram each)
- 1 3 in. gauze roll (roller) bandage
- 1 roller bandage (4 inches wide)
- 5 3 in. x 3 in. sterile gauze pads
- 5 sterile gauze pads (4 x 4 inches)
- Oral thermometer (non-mercury/nonglass)
- 2 triangular bandages
- Tweezers
- Emergency first aid instructions
If you are missing—or low—on any supplies, restock them as soon as possible.
Additional First Aid Kit Supplies and Documents
As you’re looking after your senior loved one, you also need to consider their unique health needs. Talk with them and their doctor to see if you need any additional supplies or specialized home care items for chronic health conditions or other specific requirements.
It’s also important to have vital information from their emergency medical file readily available, including:
- Phone numbers for doctors, pharmacy, and emergency contacts, as well as poison control
- Medical forms (i.e., DNR, advance directives, power of attorney, living will)
- List of medications, including dosage and schedule for each
- List of allergies, health conditions, and surgeries
- Insurance information
- A copy of a photo ID
Other First Aid Kit Tips for Seniors
Once you’ve prepared and organized your loved one’s home first aid kit, put it in a convenient and easily accessible location for visitors. That way, it can quickly be located during emergencies.
You should also:
- Replace any used items promptly
- Schedule a check every six months to identify and replace expired items
Where to Find a First Aid Class in Destin
If you’re a caregiver for your senior loved one, being certified in both Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Basic Life Support (BLS) is extremely useful.
CPR teaches life-saving actions like chest compressions and rescue breaths used during a heart attack. BLS is a more comprehensive approach that teaches additional techniques for a heart attack, respiratory distress and blocked airways.
Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in the United States, with more than 400,000 heart attacks happening annually. Knowing how to perform CPR can double (or triple) someone’s chance of survival.
Here’s where you can take a first aid class in Destin.
- Destin Fire Control District is an American Heart Association training site. They regularly offer CPR and BLS training. Call 850-837-8413 to check availability, reserve your spot or request more information.
- Beachside Certificationoffers mobile CPR, AED and first aid training following American Safety Health Institute curriculum. You can register for a class on their website, or call 850-502-3284 for more information.
- American Red Cross offers an online course for $37 covering CPR, AED and first aid, including breathing and cardiac emergencies.
How Professional Senior Home Care in Destin, FL, Can Help
Having a well-stocked first aid kit is extremely important, but having a professional in-home caregiver adds an extra level of support and peace of mind for your loved one. They're like an extra pair of caring hands when you or other family members can't be there.
Visiting Angels Destin offers a full range of services for senior home care in Destin, FL, and surrounding areas that safely help your loved one age in place in the comfort of their own home. This includes respite care that gives you a much-needed break to rest, recharge and handle other responsibilities.
Ready to learn more about how we can assist your loved one? Call us at 850-424-3363 or contact us online to request a free, in-home care consultation where we’ll meet your family, discuss your loved one’s needs and show you what a personalized senior care plan might look like. We look forward to meeting you!