September 9th, 2023 is World First Aid Day, an annual campaign to promote the importance of first aid training in preventing injuries and saving lives.
Caring Means Being Prepared
As we age, chronic disease and decline in mobility, sight, hearing and cognitive abilities can contribute to accidents. The ability of a family caregiver to respond to emergencies can make the difference between life and death. This is especially true when a heart attack, stroke or falls are involved.
In addition to learning life-saving procedures, first aid can help with day to day comfort for seniors. Keeping within their qualifications and abilities, a caregiver can treat minor conditions. From removing an eyelash from inside the eye & treating minor cuts to removing obstructions from someone choking & removing splinters, the ability to treat minor injuries and conditions can make seniors feel more comfortable. With these abilities comes confidence from elders about the care that they are receiving and can help family caregivers with their confidence in providing care for their loved one.
Easy as 1,2,3,4
Choose a reputable organization for your training.
Choose a program that includes CPR
Ensure that you keep a first aid kit that reflects your training and abilities at home and keep it stocked at all times.
Keep your certification up to date. First aid evolves and procedures change in order to be relevant in the world today. It is very important to understand the improvements in first aid procedures so you can provide the very best care for your loved one.
Stick to your training
First aid is your first line of defense in an emergency and non-emergency situations. It is extremely important that you act on your training. A first aid course does not replace the need for medical professionals. Training or no training you should always call911 in cases of emergencies and seek advice or assistance from a medical professional such as a registered nurse or doctor when you are dealing with situations outside of your training.
From Sidney to Victoria BC, Pacific Coast Health Services provides home healthcare for seniors and persons with disabilities. From respite care & 24-hour care to dementia care & advanced foot care, our care line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week - 365 days a year. To book your free in-home healthcare assessment.
Call (250) 389-0202 or Email tjohnson@pchservices.ca.
This post was a collaborative effort with our friends at Lions Gate Home Care