Helping Seniors Navigate Appointments With Their Doctor

As people get older, their healthcare needs become more complicated, so it’s crucial for them to talk to their doctors clearly to ensure they get the best care. But when talking to their doctors, many seniors may feel scared or stressed and find it hard to talk about their worries or ask questions. Seniors need continued support moving forward, and they get it from a strong senior home care team and loved ones. Continue reading to gain more suggestions to help them talk to their doctors, stay informed about their condition, and become empowered about their care.

1. Get ready for the meeting. Tell seniors to write down their questions or concerns before their appointment and to bring a list of all their medications and medical history. This can help them stay organized and ensure they don’t forget anything important during the meeting. The senior home care team can also help seniors practice what they want to say so it feels more comfortable when the time comes.

2. Be a supporter. If seniors feel unsafe speaking up or standing up for themselves, loved ones can attend the appointment or help them get ready. This can help make sure their worries are heard and taken care of. It also shows seniors that loved one’s care and are by their side.

3. Use simple words. Doctors may use jargon or complex terms that can be hard for older people to understand. Encourage them to ask their doctor to explain any terms or ideas they don’t understand in simple terms. Senior home care aides and loved ones can also research what conditions seniors’ are faced with to help in any way they can.

4. Tell the truth. Seniors may feel embarrassed or ashamed to talk to their doctor about certain health problems. They should be encouraged to be open and honest about their feelings, worries, and ways of living. This can help the doctor determine what’s wrong and give the right treatment.

5. Ask questions. With the proper support and research, seniors can feel empowered to ask questions when they don’t understand something or want more knowledge. In addition, this helps them feel more educated and in charge of the decisions they make about their health care. They should also be encouraged to follow up if needed.

6. Be patient. It’s important to remember that some seniors may have cognitive functioning issues, making it hard for them to talk to their doctor. In these situations, it might be helpful for seniors to have the senior home care team or family members at the appointment or look for tools to help them talk to their doctor better.

Ultimately, it can be challenging for seniors to talk to a doctor, but it’s essential for their health and well-being that they do. Seniors can improve their communication with their doctor and get better care if they prepare for their visit, act as their own advocate, use simple language, are honest, ask questions, and follow up. With the support of loved ones and senior home care, seniors get what they need.

Sources:
https://dailycaring.com/7-tips-for-helping-seniors-at-the-doctors-being-a-health-advocate/
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/doctors-appointments-tips-caregivers
https://www.agingcare.com/articles/how-to-prepare-for-a-doctors-appointment-tips-for-seniors-and-their-caregivers-132484.htm

If you or an aging loved-one is considering senior home care in Upper West Side, NY, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts at Home – Manhattan, Brooklyn, Westchester, Queens, Rockland today. (212) 201-6139