Create a GO BAG - A Recommendation from Julie Nowak at BayPath Elder Services of Marlborough, MA

/ BayPath Elder Services, Inc./

What’s a GO BAG?  It’s just that – a bag that will GO with you if you should need to go to the hospital for ANY reason!

(It’s also handy if you have to scramble and jump in the car to go help someone you love!)

Use a sturdy bag, preferably in a bright color that you will see and remember if you are hurrying to get out the door.

(You should have one packed for each family member, in different colors or with names clearly printed on them.) 

Here’s what should go into your GO BAG:

  • A list of the medications you take, why you take them, and the dosages (update this when there are changes!)

  • Back-up medical/assistive equipment and supplies

  • Copies of important documents, in a waterproof container or plastic bag: 

  • Charger(s) for cell phone, tablet, laptop, etc.

  • Notepad, pen/pencil, and black Sharpie marker

  • Bottled water and nonperishable food, such as granola bars

  • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, wet wipes, feminine hygiene products, etc.)

  • Cash, in small bills

  • Novels, puzzle books, coloring books, etc. to keep everyone occupied if you have to wait (don’t forget the crayons!)

  • Change of clothing (long sleeve shirt/pants, rain gear, sturdy footwear, etc.)

  • Flashlight, hand-crank or battery-operated AM/FM radio, and extra batteries

  • Spare home/vehicle keys

  • Local street maps (paper version)

  • Whistle or bell

  • Dust mask 

  • Rubber gloves and heavy work gloves 

  • First aid kit

  • Small sewing/repair kit

  • Pack of tissues

  • Supplies for your service animal or pet (in case your pet has to stay overnight with a friend!)

 Julie Nowak is the LGBTQ+ Initiative Coordinator at BayPath Elder Services, leading their outreach to LGBTQ+ older adults, people with disabilities, and isolated individuals as she works to connect generations of our Rainbow Community in the Greater Boston/MetroWest area.  She regularly offers trainings in Gray Pride: Welcoming & Working with LGBT Elders; these cultural competency trainings are mandatory for all BayPath staff and open to people from other groups/agencies, and can be offered at your venue free of charge.  Around the year she hosts showings with guided discussion of the powerful documentary, Gen Silent, which showcases the challenges, fears, and triumphs of several Boston-area LGBT elders; filmed a decade ago, this documentary remains keenly relevant today and can be shown at your venue free for staff/colleagues or with a performance fee paid to its creators for a public viewing.  If you have older residents with family members who’ve come out as part of our vibrant LGBTQ+ community, Julie can join your residents in a cozy, conversational setting for a simple LGBTQ&A where they can feel safe asking questions and learn how to use affirming language to support their loved ones. Julie is also active in PFLAG’s Concord Chapter (MA) and Gay For Good (G4G)’s Boston Chapter, and would be very pleased to chat with YOU!

BayPath Elder Services, Inc.

33 Boston Post Road West

Marlborough, MA 01752

Phone: 508-573-7200