Empowerment of Elderly Medical Emergency Response

Abstract

Abstract. Old age or degenerative diseases are included in the category of non-communicable diseases that often require prompt treatment before being taken to the nearest health facility. Currently the number is increasing and is a frequent cause of death and disability throughout the world. Cardiovascular diseases such as stroke, cancer, chronic lung disease, and diabetes mellitus are the most common types of degenerative diseases. If degenerative diseases are treated as early as possible, then the disease can be prevented and does not worsen. This community service method was in the form of counseling on early detection, training, and practice of handling medical emergencies for degenerative diseases that require immediate assistance before being taken to a health facility. This community service was attended by 18 members of the elderly group assisted by PKU Kotagede Yogyakarta Hospital, which is located in Kotagede. The elderly group consisted of 8 women and 10 men, aged over 60 years. Prior to counselling and training, a pre-test was conducted to explore initial knowledge and a post-test to monitor the development of knowledge was given after the counselling and training. The results of the average pre-test score demonstrated a value of 7 while the results of the post-test indicated an average value of 9. The output of the service was in the form of an early recognition pocket book and handling medical emergencies in the elderly. Training on early detection and emergency degenerative diseases in the elderly can increase the knowledge and insight of the elderly to be more aware of worsening disease and provide first aid before being taken to the hospital.