My friend recently shared a frightening experience of something that happened while she was out for dinner. It served as an important reminder that while medical emergencies can happen to anyone, when you are caring for a loved one with chronic conditions, they are almost inevitable. Taking time to think through how you would respond in these situations can help you react more quickly and with more confidence if an emergency occurs.
While my friend was enjoying her meal, she noticed an older couple at a table across from her. At first, nothing seemed unusual, but she slowly realized something was wrong. The woman appeared to be choking. She was unable to cough or speak and was clearly struggling to breathe.
My friend rushed over to help and attempted the Helmich maneuver. Several other people in the restaurant tried to help as well. Fortunately, a woman came and identified herself as a nurse and was able to dislodge the food before the paramedics arrived. By this point, however, the woman had become unconscious. Then, when the paramedics were on scene, the husband shared that his wife has Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s disease can affect the muscles involved in swallowing, making choking a common and serious complication. I do not know this couple or their circumstances. Still, I hope they had received education about the swallowing challenges that can accompany Parkinson’s disease and what to do if a choking emergency occurs. Knowing the warning signs and understanding how to respond can make a critical difference.
Caring for a loved one with chronic illness is challenging, and many caregivers are on edge waiting for the next emergency to strike. While no one can predict every situation, some complications are common enough that it is worth preparing for them in advance. Choking in someone with Parkinson’s disease is one example. Falls in someone with osteoporosis, severe hypoglycemia in a person with diabetes, or breathing difficulties in someone with chronic lung disease are others.
Preparation and education may not prevent an emergency from occurring, but it can go a long way in growing confidence and response time. By thinking through some of the more common emergencies you or your loved one may experience, you will build your muscle memory and reduce your fear reactions. This mental practice can help you respond quickly and stay calm in the moment.
Talk to the doctor about what may occur, and where you can learn skills and tips on how to respond. Ask if there are any emergency tools or supplies that you should have on hand and prepare your emergency contact numbers and information in case they are needed.
Thankfully, in the case of my friend’s dinner experience, the woman appeared to be okay by the time she was transported to the hospital. But I can only imagine how scary that experience was for her loved one.
Learning about the most common complications associated with your loved one’s condition, discussing an emergency plan with their healthcare team, and keeping emergency contact information readily available are simple steps that can make a meaningful difference.
Martha Shapiro can be reached at Senior Concerns at 805-497-0189 or by email at mshapiro@seniorconcerns.org.
