Navigating Doctors Visits as a Senior: A Step-By-Step Guide

As we get older, many things change, but one thing remains the same for us all. And that's a less than enthusiastic response to going to the doctor. But, even though it's something that we may not like, doctor visits are essential to remaining in good health.

If you're caring for an aging parent, you must take the time to prepare them for their routine visits. But, how exactly are you supposed to navigate doctors visits as your parents get older?

Continue reading for all the information you need and make doctors visit less overwhelming and easier to manage.

Planning Is Key

Part of the planning process means writing down any questions or issues that your parent has been having during the period between their last visit and their upcoming visit. You might also want to bring along the medications that your parent has been taking.

The more you write down before the visit occurs, the less likely it is that your parent will forget to address something serious when meeting with their doctor. Planning also means taking the time to charge hearing aids if your parent wears them or placing their glasses near the bedside table the night before.

Having all these items ready ensures that your parent can take an active role in their doctor's appointment rather than relying on you to relay all the information for them.

Schedule Transportation

If you cannot carry your loved one to their doctor's visit, you'll want to schedule transportation to get there on time. This may mean contacting a family member or a caregiving service that offers transportation to and from medical appointments.

Ensure that the transportation service you hire is equipped to handle your loved one's needs and will arrive on time to transport them to the appointment.

Pack the Essentials

Typically, you'll need specific items to present to the front desk before your visit can continue when you go to the doctor. There's no need for your loved one to remember to pack all the essentials when you're there to do it for them.

Trust us, they'll thank you for packing their bag because having to reschedule a doctor's appointment can be a pain. The items needed for a doctors appointment include, but aren't limited too:

• Insurance card
• Photo ID
• Current medication list
• Co-pay unless this is one of those free doctors visits

These are just a few things that your loved one will need to be prepared for their doctor's visit.

Doctors Visits: One Less Thing to Worry About

When it comes to doctors visits, we may never enjoy sitting in the cold waiting rooms, but there are ways to prepare your elderly parents for their routine check-ups. Taking the time to prepare their belongings and scheduling transportation are just a few things you need to do.

If you're looking for places that offer resources to support your loved one as they continue to age, check out Aging Solutions. There's no limit to the information you'll find.