You have many responsibilities for caring for your elderly parents. These responsibilities increase as they age, since they deteriorate both physically and mentally. They may no longer process information and events as quickly, and they may not understand what you say as easily. Things they used to find easy to do can now cause confusion and frustration. One of your goals as a caregiver is to be an effective healthcare advocate for your parents. Below are tips to help make sure you are doing everything possible to keep them healthy or to help them choose healthy activities in our community.
Make Sure one Family Member is the Main Contact
Appoint one relative as the main contact. Your loved one’s medical caregivers will appreciate having just one family member to coordinate their care. The person specified should be attached to all medical records and have ‘medical power of attorney’. This gives them permission to make decisions about your parent’s treatment. For this reason, the designated point of contact should be someone responsible, careful and should have some information regarding medical law if possible. They should be impartial and have the best for your loved ones and should not have benefits stemming from their health deterioration in mental or other health condition.
Keep Track of All Appointments and Be Present for All of Them
Many older adults become frustrated when dealing with medics. They may not comprehend the terminology being used regarding diagnosis or management. This may be especially hazardous if they do not fully understand their medication and how it interacts with any other medication they are taking. You can help them navigate through this confusing process by being present and acting as a go-between whenever needed.
Consider Getting Them a Legal Medical Care Directive
As they grow older, your parents may no longer know how to convey their wishes regarding their medical and other care. A medical care directive gives you permission to communicate on their behalf should they lose this capacity in a significant fashion. A legal representative or elder law attorney can explain what is needed and how it works.
The List of their Medications Should Always be Up to Date
Older individuals are likely taking multiple medications from various sources or will do so as they grow older. Keep tabs on what they are, how much they cost, and where they can be purchased. Also make sure you have a record of the dosages and times they are taken. This information should be available during each doctor’s, dentist’s, or pharmacist’s visit as well as when visiting emergency rooms.
Be Prepared to Ask Questions During the Next Clinical Visit
You want to make the most of your healthcare visit. To be ready to discuss issues like recent falls they have had, weight loss you have seen, or hearing issues, make a list of specific areas of concern.
Ask your parent if they have any questions about the visit before you go; they might not remember them once you are at the doctor’s office. If you have any concerns of your own, you can take this time to also air them.
Feel free to schedule a tour with us today to see what we can offer your loved ones.
