Be Proactive with Your Heath Care Visits

Most of us have walked out of our doctor’s office and quickly thought of a question we wished we had asked the doctor.  We know that doctors are busy and our time with them is short, but the medical profession says it is important for seniors to proactively communicate with their health care providers and control the appointment. 

They recommend putting together a list of questions you want to ask before your next visit.  This can help to give you a better understanding of your medical conditions and improve your ability to self-manage them.  You should also bring a list of all of the prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins and supplements you are currently taking.
General questions to ask include:

• Are my medications still appropriate to my condition and should the dosage be lowered or increased?  
• How are my blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels?
• What type of exercise do you recommend for someone my age?
• Is my weight a problem?
• What steps should I take to improve my health?

If you are experiencing symptoms, make a list of all of them and include frequency and the amount of pain or discomfort associated with them.  If your doctor diagnoses a disease, ask them how do you spell it and if you will need any tests or medications to treat it? In addition ask your doctor how the condition will affect your long-term health, and what, if any, are the side effects of the medications. 

Too many seniors are reluctant to ask questions of their health care providers but it is important to become educated about your medical conditions, treatments and possible health risks.  In fact, most doctors say they wish their patients would be more proactive and ask questions during their visit as it lets them know you understand your health conditions. 

MorningStar of Fountain Hills represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Call to schedule a visit to experience firsthand our beautiful assisted living and memory care community.