Develop a Care Plan

Community spread of COVID-19 is increasing throughout the United States, and older adults are at higher risk of severe illness and even death associated with this disease. Following CDC recommended guidance on how to avoid getting sick and what to do in case you get sick is an important step in remaining healthy and helping slow the spread of COVID-19. Additionally, developing a care plan is vital during this crucial time in our country.

A care plan is a form that summarizes a person’s health conditions and current treatments. Many care plans include a summary of your health conditions, medications, healthcare providers, emergency contacts, and end-of-life care options (for example, advance directives). People complete their care plans in consultation with their doctor, and if needed, with help from a family member or home nurse aide. Download a fillable care plan formpdf icon pdf icon[1 MB].

Developing a care plan now can have benefits beyond the current pandemic. You can update your care plan every year, or any time you have a change in your health or medications to keep the care plan current. Care plans can reduce emergency room visits and hospitalizations, and improve overall medical management for people with a chronic health condition, resulting in better quality of life.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, having a care plan is an important part of emergency preparedness. See guidance on how to develop your emergency preparedness care plan.