Key takeaways
- Are you in charge of managing your family’s health? You might be a chief health officer (CHO).
- A family CHO is
often a mom , but can be anyone in the family who manages their family’s well-being, from arranging medical appointments to keeping tabs on nutrition. - Check out our tips and resources to help you manage your family’s health and well-being easily and effectively.
Keeping on top of your own health can be tough enough, let alone managing a family’s well-being. Staying organized is crucial, and though it takes regular effort and care, it can prevent overwhelm, confusion, or mistakes.
Calendars and planners
Think about getting a family calendar or planner to keep track of medical appointments, classes or groups, and medications. A quick search online will bring up many options, from simple wall calendars to dedicated digital “whiteboards.”
Some calendars have columns for different people, helping keep larger families organized and aware.
Making notes
How do you like to organize and remember important things? Do you jot down notes on your phone in the moment? Or write in a journal at the end of the day? Maybe sticky notes are your go-to, or you rely on apps.
You can use a notes app on your phone or a physical notepad, specifically for making notes on health concerns. You can take this to medical appointments, with preplanned questions, or to take notes on what is said. This can be crucial for remembering complex discussions and following up for clarity.
Though simple, taking notes can empower you to advocate for your family’s health clearly.
Keeping medications and supplements organized
Having separate pill organizers for each family member can be helpful, particularly if there are different medications or supplements to take daily.
Some models, such as the AUVON organizer, have separate compartments for each day, which you can take out for travel. There are extra compartments for a.m. and p.m. doses.
Lots of medications have expiration dates, so regularly going through your family’s medication cabinet can prevent you from taking expired medications, while ensuring you order replacement drugs or medical supplies on time. You can also get rid of medication that you no longer need.
Always check how to dispose of medication safely. The
Save on over-the-counter (OTC) medications and prescriptions
For common OTC medications, nonbrand versions typically have the same ingredients and doses as brand-name options. For example, pharmacy-brand ibuprofen may be the same as Tylenol. Consider choosing nonbrand versions to save money.
For prescription medications and equipment, alongside regularly checking your supply and ordering repeats in good time, search for discounts and coupons.
Being prepared with the right supplies is essential for preventing or managing illness. Here are some essential medications and equipment to keep ready for use.
First aid kit
A first aid kit filled with the basics is a household essential. Look for a kit that is easily portable and includes various bandages, pain relief medications, and cleansing or antiseptic wipes, gels, or creams.
Keeping a first aid kit in each family vehicle can help you manage accidents and emergencies outside the home quickly. Look for vehicle-specific kits, including items such as foil blankets or torches.
Pain relief
Having a good supply of everyday pain-relief medications is always sensible. Keep OTC drugs such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen in stock. Child-friendly versions, such as lower-strength syrups, can make safe dosing easier.
Consider nonmedication forms of pain relief, too. A heating pad or hot water bottle is a reliable way to help ease aches and pains while providing comfort.
A TENS unit is another option for targeted pain relief. It releases small electric currents through pads placed on the body. It may help with muscle cramps, such as period pain, and smaller versions are designed to be portable.
Always follow instructions carefully when using a TENS unit, as it may not be suitable for everyone. Though TENS units can be safe for children, supervision is required. They are not safe for people with epilepsy or pacemakers, for example.
Medicine cabinet
Aside from OTC painkillers, consider keeping a range of medications readily available to treat common complaints.
For example, you may want:
- lozenges for sore throats
- medications for diarrhea or constipation
- hydrating drinks or powders for nausea
- vapor rubs for colds
Other ideas include bite creams, antiseptic ointments, and antihistamines.
Also, consider calming skin creams and lotions for mild itchiness, irritation, and rashes. If a family member has a skin condition like eczema, make sure they have eczema-friendly products to prevent or tackle flare-ups early.
Look for products safe for your family, considering any medication and conditions contraindications, and stock products to treat conditions you often encounter.
One key aspect of caring for your family’s health is maintaining their overall well-being to prevent or manage health concerns. Supporting healthy nutrition, exercise, and sleep is essential.
Supplements
Each family member will have unique health concerns and needs, which can determine which supplements may benefit them.
Supplements designed specifically to support immune health can be particularly useful if your family is at risk of colds, flus, and other viral illnesses. This could be best as a seasonal supplement around back-to-school time and the winter holidays.
Seasonal health
Health needs and concerns change with the seasons, whether it’s time to head back to school or the approach of hay fever season.
Key seasonal shifts to keep in mind when managing your family’s health include:
- Back to school: As kids rush back to school, they often bring home colds, flus, and lice from school friends. Ensure you have the medications and equipment to tackle these at the first symptoms.
- Cold & flu season: As the weather gets colder, viruses spread more easily. Be prepared with tissues, medication to manage fevers, and decongestants.
- Allergy season: If anyone in your family is prone to hay fever, you know it’s crucial to stock up on anti-allergy medications as soon as possible. From barrier balms to eye sprays, it’s time to stock up when the weather gets warmer.
- Heatwaves: As summer approaches and the sun shines, it’s time to seek sun protection. Sunscreen with SPF 30 or above is essential for all family members. For children who dislike applying sunscreen, try different forms such as roll-ons, sprays, or sticks. Learn what to stock up on during summer.
Being a chief health officer (CHO) for your family can be tough. Taking time to prepare and using tools to stay organized will help you manage family well-being with minimal stress.
Find ways to share responsibilities, empowering others to take over aspects of their health. This can help reduce stress for the family CHO and help other members to look after themselves better.
Consider your family’s unique health situations and goals when building wellness resources in your home, and remember to prioritize your own health.