Checklist 2c

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Health Assessment Checklist

Here is a checklist to help you initially assess your loved one's health:

Make sure your parents visit their primary doctor regularly.

Find out if they are experiencing any problems managing their own health, such as remembering to take their medications.

Notice if they’re holding onto walls or someone else when walking or if they appear to have difficulty walking or arising from a chair.

Check your loved one’s vision.

Make sure an ophthalmologist tests their eyes at least once a year and that they have a current prescription.

Have them consider getting a pair of glasses with single-vision distance lenses for some activities, such as walking outside.

Caution your loved ones about using tint-changing lenses, which can be hazardous when going from bright sun into darkened buildings.

Bifocals can be problematic on stairs, so it’s important to be cautious.

Ask your parents’ doctor or pharmacist to review their medications.

Identify medicines, both prescription and over-the-counter, that may cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, or dehydration, leading to falls.

Ask about combinations of medications that might have side effects that could affect a person’s balance or coordination.

Encourage your parents to establish a regular exercise routine.

Suggest mild weight-bearing activities, such as walking, which help keep joints flexible and decrease bone loss from osteoporosis.

Make sure your loved ones wear shoes that provide good support, with non-slip soles.

If your parents’ walking is sometimes unsteady, suggest a cane or walker—but also consult a physical therapist, since poorly fit aids can increase fall risk.

Be mindful of how much alcohol your parents drink. Even small amounts can affect balance and reflexes.

Remind your loved ones to get up slowly after eating, sitting or lying down. Low blood pressure can cause dizziness at these times.

Make sure that your loved ones drink lots of water, as dehydration is a major issue in a person’s later years and impacts overall health.