If You See Something, Say Something - A Caregiver's Role in Keeping Older Adults Safe

Next Avenue has published an article by Terry Fulmer, PhD, RN, FAAN, president of The John A. Hartford Foundation, on "If You See Something, Say Something: A Caregiver's Role in Keeping Older Adults Safe."

Dr. Fulmer notes that, "a caregiver may identify a potential safety issue before a doctor, nurse or even the older adult notices it themselves, and may be able to say something before harm occurs. Caregivers are vital members of the care team, whether in the home, hospital or doctor's office, and they can play an outsized role in patient safety." She discusses three things in particular to look out for:

• Be on the lookout for medication problems
• Be alert to the potential for diagnostic errors
• Seek help when using medical devices

The article is part of the JAHF-sponsored special report on Caregiving in America: The 24/7 Caregiver. The special report calls attention to diverse caregivers and their needs, explores what an inclusive, comprehensive space for caregivers looks like, and elevates dialogues focused on the heart of caregiving. One of the initial articles in the series, "'Something for Me': The National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers," lays out the 2022 National Strategy and it's goals and the impact of caregiving on caregivers. "Caregiving will likely impact each of us at some point, whether as the caregiver, the person being cared for or both."

Read the article.
Read the National Strategy article.
Go to the Next Avenue Caregiving in America: The 24/7 Caregiver series.

Visit The John A. Hartford Foundation website for more information.