
The winter weather also increases the risk of falling for most older adults.

In fact, a body temperature below 95 degrees increases the risk of heart disease and kidney damage, resulting in severe health deficits. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, older adults are more sensitive to the cold than younger adults. While the wintertime provides an opportunity to try new hobbies and connect with family and friends over holiday celebrations, it also presents unique challenges for the senior population. And, vice versa, if officers find someone who has difficulties communicating, they can search the database by description to find out where that person lives.As temperatures begin to drop, it’s never too early to start preparing your loved ones for the winter ahead. Then, if that person goes missing, deputies will know exactly who they are looking for. The program is specifically for people with disabilities such as Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Down Syndrome, or other developmental disabilities.įamilies or care givers can register a person with the department, providing a physical description, contact information, and relevant health concerns. The San Diego and Orange County Sheriff’s departments both participate in the Take Me Home Program designed to help families and care givers locate people who have wandered away or gotten lost. MedicAlert can communicate with the local police to provide them with a description of the person or with their emergency contact’s information. Those who subscribe to Safe Return have 24/7 support from MedicAlert to help them find a missing loved one.

In partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association MedicAlert offers plans with Wandering Support as part of a program called Safe Return. In order for this form to be recognized as a legal document, it will require acknowledgment before a Notary Public or two qualified witness signatures. The person can allow their Power of Attorney for Health Care to make medical decisions now or in the future should the person become incapacitated. In the State of California, an Advanced Health Care Directive allows a person to name their Power of Attorney for Health Care as well as to choose the types of care they do or do not want to receive. a standard Power of Attorney means that the powers continue should the Principle become incapacitated and unable to make their own decisions.ĭownload Form Advanced Health Care Directive The Agent has a Fiduciary responsibility to act in the Principle’s best interests. The Agent can only make decisions as specified by the “Principle”. The Power of Attorney grants these powers and decision making to a trusted friend or relative who will be known as an “Agent”. In the State of California, a Power of Attorney allows an individual to make financial decisions in place of someone else. Prior to admission into a Care Home, the State of California requires this form to be completed by the Primary Care Physician, or attending Physician if in a medical facility, and provided to the Care Home of your choosing. If you’re keeping your loved one at home, review the Home Safety Checklist for seniors to make sure that their home is safe.

When moving your loved one into a Care Home, the forms below will be helpful in relieving some of the stress in choosing the right home, as well as ensuring a smooth transition into that new home.
