Today, more individuals are keeping personal copies of their medical history. As we've become a more mobile society, this is critical as you never know when something might occur, requiring medical attention. Having your personal medical history is especially helpful when traveling or visiting a new doctor. Having this information available when needed ensures you receive the best and most appropriate care and that you don't accidentally leave out something important in your conversations.

Having your personal medical history with you may also help your doctor identify patterns or possible causes of particular symptoms. And, it's a useful tool for your family when they need to be your advocate or in case of an emergency. If you decide to move into a senior living community, make sure staff has a copy or knows where it is.

Your personal medical history should include the following:

• Name, birth date, blood type
• Allergies, what happens when you are exposed to each allergen, and how you have been treated in the past
• Any chronic conditions
• All medications (current and past), including dosages, duration of use, reasons for taking them, and any side effects. Be sure to include over the counter medications as well.
• Dates of doctor's visits and reasons for each visit
• Information about major illnesses, hospital visits, and surgeries
• Dates and results of tests and screenings
• Immunization history
• Relevant family history
• A more thorough record may also include notes about your emotions, what may have been going on in your life at the time, eating, exercising, and sleeping habits

Be sure your personal medical history is portable, readily accessible, and secure. Let your family know how to find it or give them a copy. Get your template for a Personal Medical History form.

It's not uncommon to see the activity level and social life of older adults decrease, especially if they have lost spouses or suffer from physical ailments. However, staying active is an essential component of one's health and well-being. For instance, social activities exercise the brain, maintain agility and mobility, reduce the risk of cognitive decline, and provide general support and encouragement.

Ways to help older adults stay active:

• Play games – board games and card games are great exercises for the brain
• Adopt a new hobby or attend classes
• Join a charity group or volunteer
• Join a walking group or try a low-impact exercise like water aerobics
• Take a dance class or join a choir
• Join a photography, birding, gardening, or knitting club

If you are looking at senior living options for yourself or a loved one, know that the vast majority of communities offer a variety of activities for residents. Whether you are researching communities on your own, or if you would like the help of a referral specialist, be sure to ask about the activities offered so you can be sure to make the community choice that is right for you.

In the Eugene-Springfield area, Adult Living Solutions works with senior living communities every day and we are well versed in the options available. Give us a call today: 541-685-1533