What to pack for a general hospital bag for the over 60's.

[Salome61]

My neighbour is the same age as me, 65, and has just told me she had a heart attack early hours of Tuesday. She has been to get checked out and luckily her heart isn't damaged, but she's still sore.

I currently don't have any health problems, but thought I should pack a hospital bag, just in case. I haven't been in hospital for thirty years.

Can I ask what do people include please?

I have had an emergency admission and it's a good idea if you have an ongoing health concern but I wouldn't bother otherwise. I am 64. Last year I was admitted for covid and was physically unable to pack a bag to take. DH did his best but I had to ask a friend to go and buy me some respectable pyjamas.

Hospital gowns are only for emergencies and surgery.
What were really useful
Long charging cable.
Tablet with some films downloaded (hospitals have free wifi but you can't stream.
A stand to prop up phone / kindle
Eyemask - lights on half the night. Hospitals are very bright and noisy.
Slip on shoes or slippers.
Dressing gown.
Squash to make a change from water.
Notebook to make notes on what doctors say and to write down questions to ask ready for when you see doctor.
A set of your medications and a list of when you take them. (Don't let them take these off you if you can possibly be allowed to manage your own. Otherwise they will give you them at random times of day or not before / after food.
Mini toiletries and a small towel - hospitals don't provide these.
TBH I was too ill to get showered or washed for several days and sadly no-one does it for you.