Secrets of Those 55+ in Getting the Most from Their Doctor

We all know that as we get older, a variety of ailments are bound to pop up ranging from arthritis to bone diseases to fractures, falls, and even more serious illnesses like diabetes or cancer. We also know that unlike when we were younger, we don’t bounce back from even minor ailments as quickly as we might have when we were younger. It’s simply a fact of growing older. As we age, senior health episodes can become life-threatening more quickly so it’s important to have a good relationship with your doctor. However, it’s most important that you communicate well with your doctor so he or she can help you more effectively. Here are a few tips to help you (or to help your elderly loved one) work better with your (or his/her) doctor:

• Be prepared! Before arriving at the doctor’s office, make a list. Write down the issues you wish to discuss, and be as comprehensive as possible. Let the doctor know of changes you’ve seen in your or your elderly loved one’s general health or particular symptoms you’ve seen. Make a list of the medications, vitamins, supplements, etc. that are taken. If lab tests were completed recently, bring the results with you.
• Ask lots of questions. Don’t be afraid to ask any and all questions. Nothing should be off-limits. Your doctor, as they say, “has seen it all before,” so don’t be shy.
• If you don’t understand something, speak up. If your doctor is describing what might be wrong or is discussing a course of action, don’t be afraid to ask him or her to clarify something you don’t understand, or to speak in “layman’s terms.”
• Ensure you understand the outcomes that should be achieved. For example, ask how you’ll know if the course of action is working or if the medication is doing its job. What if you or your loved one is not getting better? Before you leave the doctor’s office, you should know what to expect in the coming days, weeks, and months.
• Understand the side effects of medication. Most medications may have a number of side effects, with some being just an annoyance, while others seeming more serious. Talk to your doctor about side effects that should not worry you, and those that could be cause for concern. Knowing this will put your mind at ease.
• Understand what the doctor means if he or she refers you to a specialist. If your doctor believes you or your loved one needs to see a specialist, ask the doctor why this is the case and what you should expect. Also, ask the doctor about the qualifications of the specialist as you likely won’t know this new doctor. After you’ve seen the specialist, ensure your primary doctor and your specialist are in communication about your case.
• Get written instructions. Before leaving your doctor’s office, write down--or ask the doctor to do so--specific instructions on next steps so you don’t forget anything.

The National Institute on Age (NIH) has published a guide for those 55+ on how to prepare for the doctor and how to speak with them during your appointment You can download this free guide by clicking here:

Remember, your doctor is working for you. Make sure you get the most out of the appointment. It’s their job and it’s your (or your loved ones) health!

_{This article was written by Andrew Mastrandonas, Co-founder & CEO of Pillar (www.pillarcare.com) and reviewed by Dr Lim Geng Yan (M.D). Pillar provides a range of elderly home caregiving services, sending trained and certified professional caregivers and nurses to clients’ homes. For more information please visit www.pillarcare.com}