SENIORS' SAFETY

Imagine for a moment that a friend stops by to visit. They notice the lights are on, the door is unlocked, but you are not answering when they knock. Curious, they come in the house, they call your name but still no answer. They walk around the corner and find you on the floor and not responding.

For some people, this is a very real possibility. Perhaps you live alone. Maybe you have an illness or condition that could have caused your collapse. The steps you need to have in place at this point could be vitally important.

Calling for help would likely be the first thing your friend would do. Do they know your civic address? Do they know what your conditions and allergies are? How can they contact your family?

A Vial of Life can provide these answers, and it can save your life, even if you don’t have an illness or take medication. It is not meant for only the elderly or those living alone. All that matters is that emergency responders can eliminate possible problems and obstacles in the event they are called to help and you are unable to tell them what you want them to know.

The vial contains simple page that you fill out yourself. It asks appropriate personal and medical information. Your name, address, birth date, health card number, and contact information of family or neighbors are noted on the first section.

On the backside of the page is a place where you list any known medical conditions. Even if you don’t have a medical condition, it is also important to note that. First responders will be able to eliminate possibilities.

The next section identifies any known allergies. This could also be a life saving bit of information for anyone living with this fear. There is a place to put an updated list of current medication or supplements you are taking. For medical personnel this could help in identifying any reactions or problems you may be having.

Once you complete this form, put it back in the vial, put the vial in the fridge on the door and put the Vial of Life sticker outside on the fridge door. You need only think about noting any changes in health status or medications as they happen.

You should also consider putting your correct civic address on or near your phone, so anyone calling for help knows how to point them in the right direction. Sure, they will figure it out, but saving time could mean saving a life.

Anyone can have a Vial of Life. It can provide a lot more comfort to those who have a greater risk of being on that floor in the first place, however. Chronic illnesses, those taking life sustaining medication or treatments, those with heart disease, pacemakers, diabetes, aneurysm, those who live alone and the elderly are possible examples.

To get a vial, contact me at the RCMP detachment at 245-2579. The vials are free.




Dawn Thomas is Seniors’ Safety coordinator for the Town and Municipality of Digby