It might be difficult for your elderly loved ones to figure out how to get the best health care and attending a doctor’s appointment alone can be confusing for many. Therefore, being their health advocate is important as you can help them with keeping track of details or bringing up difficult topics. Here are five tips to be a health advocate for your loved ones!
Prepare for Appointments Ahead of Time
Before your elderly loved ones attend their doctor’s appointment, ask them how they have been feeling and if anything is upsetting them. When they are relaxed and have time to ponder and talk things over, you will acquire better information as compared to when they are rushed into the doctor’s office. Furthermore, asking several times over a few weeks may help you obtain more information as they recall different details.
Take Notes
It is almost impossible to recall what the doctor says or keep any information in your head for months. Taking notes at each doctor’s appointment will assist you and your loved ones in comprehending what the doctor said and why certain decisions were taken. It is also a good idea to jot down something to make sure you understand what the doctor shares.
Make Sure Everyone Is on the Same Page
Ensure that you and your loved ones comprehend what the doctor is saying when they explain your loved one’s health conditions or when they answer your question. A doctor’s job includes making sure you understand what they are telling you so you can follow their directions. Do not be shy about asking further questions until everything is apparent. For instance, if you are in doubt about something, ask your doctor to elaborate on it. If you do not inquire, the doctor will likely believe that you comprehended what they said.
Understand Treatment Options and Side Effects
Most of our elderly loved ones are dealing with various chronic illnesses. They will be in better overall health if they have enough awareness of their health condition, treatment alternatives, and side effects. The following are some important questions to ask about existing or future treatments:
- What are the possible side effects?
- How will it benefit my loved one?
- Will this have an impact on their ability to function on their own?
- What are the consequences if we choose not to do so?
Bring Up Treatment Cost Concerns
Doctors can assist with medical expenditures, which may surprise you. They may reduce their price, provide free samples of expensive prescriptions, recommend a less expensive yet equally effective treatment choice, or inform you about financial aid programs. However, they would not know to give this assistance unless you or your loved ones ask or voice concerns about treatment costs.
About Assisted Living Community at TerraBella Spartanburg
You can fully enjoy senior living while also receiving assistance with daily duties like bathing and medication management at our assisted living community. Thanks to our resort-style amenities and exclusive senior living programs, you can relax knowing that everything will be taken care of by our committed team. For more information, feel free to contact us!
