Choosing the right doctor for an elderly parent is a critical choice that can significantly affect their health and happiness. As seniors age, their healthcare needs may become more complicated, requiring a doctor or home care assistance providers to help them deal with their unique problems and needs.
Specialization in Geriatric Medicine: Loved ones should look for doctors who specialize in geriatric medicine or have experience working with older people. These experts know a lot about the physical, mental, and social changes that come with getting older, so they are better able to meet the unique needs of seniors.
Credentials and Practice: Researching the doctor’s education, training, certifications, and years of medical practice is essential to ensure the right decision is made. Also, it is key to ensure they are certified by a board in geriatric medicine or a similar field.
Patient Reviews and Recommendations: Online reviews and recommendations from patients can tell a lot about a doctor’s bedside manner, communication ability, and the level of care they give. But keep in mind that different people may have different situations. Pay attention to loved ones if they don’t click with the medical team.
Compatibility and Communication: Seniors need to have open communication with their doctors. The medical team should be able to listen well, show empathy, and be ready to take the time to answer questions and address concerns. Home care assistance can help seniors practice what they want to say to make things easier.
Holistic Approach to Care: A good geriatric doctor should take a holistic approach to care, considering physical, mental, and social well-being. They should be willing to talk about living choices, mental health, and quality of life in general.
Adopting Technology: In the digital age, a doctor who uses technology can be more helpful. Seniors should look for doctors who have electronic medical record systems and offer telehealth choices for appointments. If they struggle with technology, home care assistance can help.
Home Care Assistance Columbia TN – Tips For Choosing the Right Doctor For an Aging Parent
Healthcare Network and Facilities: Consider whether the doctor is connected to hospitals or other healthcare facilities with good reputations. This can make sure loved ones get good care if they need to go to the hospital or see a specialist. Also, understanding the ins and out of a loved one’s insurance policy is vital.
Cultural Sensitivity: If seniors have cultural or language preferences, finding a doctor sensitive to these things can help with communication and care in general. It’s just as important to validate their feelings if they have concerns.
Remember that a doctor’s connection with an older person is based on trust and clear communication. Loved ones should check in often with the medical team to address concerns or ask questions. Also, if loved ones think their parent needs a different doctor for any reason, they shouldn’t be afraid to look into other choices that might fit their needs better. With loved ones and home care assistance by their side, seniors can thrive.
Sources:https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/caringforyourparents/handbook/healthcare/findinga.html
https://www.verywellhealth.com/finding-the-best-doctor-for-elderly-mother-2966664
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/how-choose-doctor-you-can-talk
Fall prevention is a big part of what companion care at home does to help aging adults stay safe. They…
In this blog, we'll explore how to recognize when seniors need help with toileting, the tools and aids available to…
Touching Hearts at Home is pleased to welcome Carlye Wilson as our new Administrative Assistant!
Our Touching Hearts team recently gathered together to celebrate Thanksgiving and throw Administrative Assistant, Christin, a surprise diaper shower!
Seniors should use these oral hygiene tips to protect their teeth and gums while improving their oral health and overall…
Touching Hearts at Home celebrates 5 years with Executive Director, Sandy Gogulski! Touching Hearts at Home recently celebrated 5 years…
Telehealth appointments are becoming more common and accessible for patients, especially for senior patients. Home care assistance providers can help…
The Touching Hearts at Home Advisory Board met in Austin, TX this week to discuss the future of Touching Hearts…
Congratulations to the Nashville team for receiving the MVP Award at the National Conference in Austin, TX this week!
Because fires are so dangerous for seniors fire prevention is something that seniors and their families should make a priority. Here…