Senior Care News

How to Make the Most of Your Loved One’s Doctor’s Appointments

Caregiver in Manhasset NY

When your loved one has to go to the doctor it can be frustrating and overwhelming even for the most experienced family caregiver. Having a plan can go a long way toward making the trip moreCaregiver-in-Manhasset-NY beneficial for all of you.

Make a List of All the Issues You Need to Discuss

A few days before your loved one’s doctor’s appointment, grab a piece of paper or a notebook and start jotting down questions that you or your loved one have as well as issues you need to discuss while you’re there. Keep the list out where you can see it and add to it as you think of additional items. You’re likely to think of other questions while you’re doing other things, like the dishes, and having a running list means that you’re more likely to get everything that you need to talk about jotted down.

Take Notes or Ask About Recording the Visit

During the visit itself, ask your loved one’s doctor if it’s okay to take notes or even to record the visit. A recording is best because you can play the recording back whenever you want to go over the information again. A visit to the doctor can be tense, especially if you’re worried about your elderly loved one or if you are getting a lot of new information. Having thorough notes or a recording means that you don’t have to worry about missing any important information.

Keep an Updated List of Prescriptions and Other Medications

It’s a good idea to make a list that you update regularly that includes your loved one’s prescribed medications from all doctors as well as any over-the-counter medications that your loved one takes. Write down how much of the medication your loved one takes and when she takes it so that your loved one’s doctor has as much information as possible. As her prescriptions change, you can add and remove medications from the list.

Contact the Nurse Between Visits

No matter how well-prepared you are for each visit, there is always going to be one more question or even a new situation that comes up after the visit. The nurses that work alongside your loved one’s doctor are a fantastic resource. Your loved one’s insurance company may also have a nurse’s hotline that you can call to ask any other questions. This is particularly handy if you have a question at night or during the weekend.

Being prepared for doctor’s visits can help both you and your elderly loved one to feel more in control of her health.

If you or an aging loved one are in need of caregiver services in Manhasset, NY or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!

 

Stephen Sternbach

Recent Posts

Categories

Contact Us About Home Care

Skip to content