In an ideal world, healthcare would revolve around you and your own preferences, adhering to your specific needs and wishes – fitting within your agenda and routine, unhindered by problems like an unwavering healthcare professional who views health care solutions in black and white. Real life is far from perfect however, and a lot of us choose to submit to doctors’ orders without knowing that there could be a better-suited alternative for healthcare for seniors.
With some understanding, however, patients can, as a matter of fact, choose a more proactive stance with regard to their healthcare. Recognized as “person-centered care,” it calls for physicians working in collaboration with patients and any other members of the family or care providers they identify, bearing in mind the patient’s preferences, values and goals, and utilizing that information as guideline throughout all areas of care.
There are many steps we can all take to reach a more individualized level of care:
- Think about your healthcare goals, and write this information down to discuss with your health professionals. And, ask that medical personnel include these goals in your healthcare records.
- Become well-educated in your own health conditions and requirements, and ways in which they’re affecting your daily life. As an example, are you enduring complications with any routine activities of daily living, like taking a bath or dressing? Are you struggling with particular types of movements, such as lifting or bending? An excellent assessment tool is available here.
- Make sure that conversations with medical professionals are two-sided. Fully participate in a conversation to make sure your worries are addressed and that you recognize any potential side effects or any other risks of treatment recommendations.
- For those who have multiple medical doctors (for example, a primary care specialist as well as one or more specialists in a variety of practices), confirm that communication is taking place among all. This may necessitate requesting that paperwork be shared between providers, and after that following up to make sure that’s been done.
- Involve a trusted member of the family, friend, or professional in-home caregiver, such as Independence-4-Seniors Home Care provides, in all medical visits. Having another individual around to jot down notes, answers to questions, and any other relevant information helps ensure that nothing falls through the cracks.
For additional recommendations and for a partner in care to help make certain older adults and their loved ones have a voice in their care needs, contact Independence-4-Seniors Home Care. Our Wheaton senior care team is able to provide accompanied transportation to treatments and appointments, pick up medications and run other errands, prepare nourishing meals, and so much more. Call us at (630) 323-4665 or contact us online for help and support.