Q. I can’t make it to all my parents’ medical appointments, and I’m often worried about keeping up with all the information they are being given. What can I do to ensure their safety?

As we observe Patient Safety Awareness Week (March 9-15), it’s important to acknowledge the critical role caregivers play in ensuring the safety and well-being of older adults in healthcare settings. Older adults often have unique healthcare needs, and caregivers are key in minimizing risks and enhancing safety. Here are some tips to improve patient safety for older adults:

Be Informed and Educated: Caregivers should stay informed about the medical conditions, medications, and treatments their loved ones are receiving. Understanding the patient’s diagnosis and care plan helps in monitoring progress and spotting potential issues early. Don’t hesitate to ask healthcare providers for clarification on instructions or medications.

Ensure Clear Communication with Healthcare Providers: Effective communication is vital to prevent misunderstandings. Caregivers should actively participate in doctor visits, ask questions, and ensure that all concerns are addressed. Keeping a list of current medications and allergies is essential to avoid harmful drug interactions or errors.

Prevent Falls and Mobility Issues: Older adults are particularly vulnerable to falls, which can result in serious injuries. Caregivers should ensure the healthcare setting is free of obstacles, and that patients have the necessary assistive devices like walkers or handrails. Regularly monitoring the patient’s ability to move safely is key in preventing falls.

Advocate for Proper Pain Management: Unmanaged pain can lead to complications and discomfort. Caregivers should work with healthcare providers to ensure that pain is adequately addressed. Monitoring pain levels and notifying healthcare staff if the pain is not controlled is crucial.

Support Medication Safety: Many older adults take multiple medications, which increases the risk of errors. Caregivers should keep track of medications, ensure they are taken as prescribed, and be aware of potential side effects. Using a medication management system can help reduce the risk of mistakes.

By staying informed, engaged, and proactive, caregivers can significantly improve the safety and health outcomes for older adults, making healthcare environments safer for everyone.

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.