We’ve all stepped into the doctor’s office and felt overwhelmed at the multitude of patients who were also waiting to be seen, wondering how long it would take before it was our turn, and just how much quality time we would be able to have with the doctor once we were seen.
With upwards of 87% of seniors living with at least one chronic health disease, regular visits to the doctor are essential for comprehensive senior health care. And because doctors are extremely busy throughout the year, and even more so during the course of cold and flu season, it is critical to be proactive and have a plan in place ahead of appointments to best maximize time during medical care visits.
Compassionate Care Home Health Services’ home care team shares the following suggestions to help older adults make the most of their time at the doctor’s office, to enhance overall health and well-being and ensure that all of their medical needs are fully addressed:
Prior to Each Appointment
Prior to the older adult’s next medical appointment, put together a checklist of information you want to cover, such as:
- Anything that has changed since the last appointment, including any physical, psychological, sleep, appetite, or other changes.
- Specific questions you want to remember to ask the doctor.
- An up-to-date listing of all prescription medications, OTC medicines, vitamins, and supplements that the senior is taking.
It’s also a good idea to keep a health journal for the senior, so information is tracked and recorded in one handy location. You can then bring the journal with you to each healthcare appointment.
During the Appointment
Once your loved one is brought back to see the doctor, share with the physician any urgent issues, as well as the information you’ve gathered as outlined above. Take notes on the doctor’s responses to your concerns, or ask for a printout of this information, to be sure nothing falls through the cracks afterwards.
It’s a great idea to also ask the doctor for additional information on the senior’s particular health concerns. For example, the American Heart Association has put together the following list of questions to ask the doctor regarding heart health:
- What is the appropriate cholesterol level for the older person?
- Are there certain foods they should be eating?
- Are there any foods they ought to avoid or limit?
- What information is important to know about prescribed medications? Side effects? Any possible interactions with other medicines or supplements?
- How often should blood pressure checks be taken?
- Should the older person lose (or gain) any weight?
- What is a good exercise program for the senior?
For more doctor visit tips and assistance with professional senior care in Traverse City and nearby areas, contact the team at Compassionate Care Home Health Services. We can share free helpful resources, and provide a wide range of customized home care services to improve senior health, such as transportation and accompaniment to doctors’ appointments and procedures, picking up prescription medications, providing medication reminders, planning and preparing nutritious meals, and much more. Contact us online or call us at 877.308.1212 to learn more.