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READY TO TREAT STROKES, TOO
As an Advanced Primary Stroke Center, Methodist Mansfield
is capable of treating patients experiencing a stroke. Learn
how to recognize stroke symptoms in someone you love
at
MethodistHealthSystem.org/FAST.If you ever went to the emergency department (ED)
as a kid, chances are mom or dad was by your side,
answering doctors’ questions and providing comfort.
Now that they’re older, you may find yourself doing
the same things for your parents — especially in the
case of a fall.
Falls are so dangerous because they put older
adults at risk not only for broken bones and
dislocated joints, but also for brain injuries, says
Richard Meyrat, MD, neurosurgeon with the Methodist
Brain and Spine Institute.
“As you get older, the brain shrinks, increasing the
space between the brain and the skull,” Dr. Meyrat
says. “Even hitting your head lightly in a fall can cause
the brain to slosh around inside the skull. Little veins
on the covering of the brain can tear and lead to
blood clots.”
Dr. Meyrat suggests that anyone over age 65 who
falls should come to the ED, especially if there is
bruising or breaking of the skin.
Before an emergency ever occurs, however, there
are some ways you can be prepared:
FIND US ONLINE
Learn more about emergency care at Methodist Mansfield
at
MethodistHealthSystem.org/MansfieldEmergency .FAMILY MATTERS
Taking your parent
to the ED
After using QuickER.org to
schedule an emergency
department appointment,
Carlotta Davis has found
her new family hospital:
Methodist Mansfield.
“It was a really great
experience,” she says.
This way you can let the physician
know about your parent’s behavior,
such as memory loss or trouble
walking, in recent months. “Family members offer
another side of the story and help the physician
make the correct diagnosis and best treatment
recommendations,” Dr. Meyrat says.
Source: American College of Emergency Physicians
Have a ready-to-go written list of
your parents’ medical histories,
including allergies, surgeries,
and medications.
Though it can be difficult, it’s wise
to discuss a living will with your
parents. In case they become
unable to communicate, it can help
ensure that their wishes regarding
medical care are carried out.
Take notes.
Have the talk.
Be observant.