Whilst it may not always be possible, the best way to avoid unnecessary stress during an emergency or crisis is to plan ahead. If you have had Post Diagnostic Support a big part of this should be planning for the future and how you wish to be supported in an emergency or crisis. You may want to discuss with family and friends how much support they would be able to provide and think about other options, for example care at home or respite care.
Aberdeenshire Responders for Care at Home (ARCH) service
The Aberdeenshire Responders for Care at Home (ARCH) service is available to meet urgent care needs, 24 hours a day, across Aberdeenshire This includes helping people who have fallen but aren’t injured and need help to get up from the floor.
Getting support in a medical emergency
If you experience an acute illness it is important to seek appropriate support. NHS Grampian provide information on who to turn to.
In Aberdeenshire we aim to manage your acute illness at home, where possible. We have Core Teams made up of various professionals including GPs, Nurses, Occupational Therapists and Social Care staff who support you to stay at home or get home from hospital as quickly as possible.
Getting support in a crisis
Crises can happen, for example your carer may have a sudden change of health or your care needs may change rapidly and you find it difficult to cope.
What support you need depends on your circumstances. It may be that you can be supported by family and friends informally. If you feel additional support is needed and you already have a professional involved, such as a Link Worker, they are your first point of contact in a crisis.
If you don’t have any professional involvement, and are in crisis you, call 03456 08 12 06.
Options available to support you in a crisis may include care at home or a respite break in a care home. Aberdeenshire Council has eligibility criteria for support which is based around giving priority to those who are at the greatest risk of harm.
Getting to Know Me
It is helpful to complete Alzheimer Scotland’s Getting to Know Me form, if you haven’t already. It is a document recording your needs, likes and dislikes, personal preferences and background. It is aimed at helping hospital staff understand more about you and how best to provide care in hospital. It can be taken to hospital or shared with other professionals and care providers. It reduces the amount of information you, or your carer, may be asked to provide at the point of emergency or crisis.
You may also be asked to complete an anticipatory care plan. This document is held by your GP and details what your wishes are if your circumstances change.
