Q. A recent visit to the hospital with my wife turned into an overnight stay. I wanted to stay with her, but I didn’t have my own medications, so I had to leave early and come back the next day. She’s home and doing well now, but the experience got me thinking that I should have a list for next time. What are some of the things caregivers should bring when headed to the hospital? 

A. I’m glad to hear your wife is on the mend. When you’re headed to the hospital with a loved one who’s sick, it can be hard to remember everything you might need – especially if you’re not expecting to stay overnight. You’re wise to consider making a list for next time, so you won’t risk forgetting something important. When it comes to an overnight stay, we all have our unique needs, but here’s a general list to consider. 

• Must-haves: As you mentioned, caregivers should remember to bring their own medications, as well as their own phone charger with a long cord and a change of clothes. Include a toothbrush and toothpaste, and any personal items like contact solution or a backup pair of glasses.
• Nice-to-haves: If you end up staying a while, you may want to have items to help you freshen up, like face wash, shaving supplies, a hairbrush, hand lotion, and lip balm.
• Overnight supplies: In case of an overnight stay, you may want to bring a sweatshirt or other clothes you can comfortably sleep in. Warm socks, a small blanket, a travel pillow, earplugs, or an eye mask can also help you get a little sleep.
• Nourishment: A refillable water bottle and a few snacks can help keep hunger at bay.
• Distractions: It’s okay to bring a few things to help pass the time, like headphones to listen to music or a book. A notebook and pen or the notes app on your phone can help you keep track of doctors’ instructions and questions that come up.
• Cash/credit card: You might need some money for parking or vending machine snacks.

While you’re at it, it’s worth having a list of what to bring for your wife, in case she’s the one headed in again.

• Documents: Insurance cards, photo ID, list of current medications and dosages.
• Other must-haves: If your loved one wears glasses or hearing aids, bring those along. A phone charger with a long cord and a change of clothes can also be good to have.

When you have your list of must-haves and nice-to-haves ready to go, it can help alleviate some of the stress when heading to the hospital. That will help you focus on what really matters, taking care of your loved one, and yourself.

Are you caring for an older adult or need help finding healthy aging resources? Our experienced staff is available to help. Visit us online at www.agespan.org. You can also call 800-892-0890 or email info@agespan.org. 

Joan Hatem-Roy is the chief executive officer of AgeSpan, which serves the following cities and towns: Amesbury, Andover, Billerica, Boxford, Chelmsford, Danvers, Dracut, Dunstable, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, Marblehead, Merrimac, Methuen, Middleton, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Peabody, Rowley, Salisbury, Salem, Tewksbury, Tyngsboro, Westford, and West Newbury.