Some health concerns require the kind of life-saving medical care and urgency that the 911 service is designed for, but others may not. When a loved one needs prompt medical care, consider these points. But if you’re ever in doubt, 911 emergency services are there to help you make the right choice for your loved one.
The consequences of dialing 911
Every medical-related 911 call gets a response from the fire department and an ambulance company. Ambulance response and transportation is expensive, costing thousands of dollars at a minimum, and the injured person is expected to pay that expense (which Medicare and private insurances may or may not help cover). Availability is another factor; each service area has a limited number of ambulances. If patients over-use 911 for medical transportation, then response times can lengthen and other people may not get the timely care they need.
Whether caused by glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, macular degeneration, side effects of regular medication, or other reasons, low vision affects many seniors. Impaired eyesight can interfere with leisure activities such as reading and watching television, which has the potential to disrupt day-to-day living, hinder engagement, and even lead to depression.
The kitchen and bathroom rank among the most hazardous rooms of the home, yet they are essential to daily life — thus, when considering modifications for yourself or your loved one, these key areas deserve the utmost attention. The following suggestions are just some of the options available. With a better understanding of possible home risks and adjustments, as well as the guidance of an in-home occupational therapist, you can drastically improve not only your loved one’s safety from falls or other injuries, but also his or her independence and quality of life. 
Pet ownership has been shown to have numerous benefits for emotional health and quality of life, especially in seniors. However, having a pet in the household can pose disadvantages and dangers that are also important to consider.