Family caregivers often accompany their parent to their doctor appointments and possibly even sit in the exam room with them. It is important to be prepared, especially when you are advocating care for someone else. Below are 12 suggestions on what to do before, during and after a visit with the doctor.
Before
- Make sure your loved one has a release of information signed in their medical records.
- Pack a go-bag that includes a list of your loved one’s current medications and a change of clothing in case of any accidents while away from home.
- Write down any questions and/or concerns you or your parent have about their health.
- Pack a notebook, laptop, or tablet so you can take notes.
- While waiting to be seen, engage with your loved one, even if it’s just filling out a crossword puzzle together.
During
- Write down any changes or the physician’s concerns.
- Reference your written questions and ask them.
- Involve your parent in their own care.
- If you are seeing a specialist, ask if the office staff can send copies of medical records to the primary care doctor.
After
- Ask your parent if they have any new questions or concerns and write them down.
- Drop off any new prescriptions at your loved one’s pharmacy and schedule any tests like an MRI or colonoscopy as soon as possible.
- If your parent needed to fast for blood work or maybe received some bad news, get some lunch with them after the visit. Make it a time to relax and enjoy each other’s company.
There may be days where you can’t join your loved one on their trip to the doctor. That’s where ComForCare Home Care comes in. Our caregivers can provide transportation and even escort you to your appointment and advocate on your behalf. Visit: www.comforcare.com/fairfieldct to learn about more ways we can help.
By Neil Anand | Owner, ComForCare Home Care
ComForCare Home Care is a premier provider of in-home care with nearly 200 independently owned and operated locations in the U.S., Canada and the U.K., helping older adults live independently in their own homes and continue to do all the things they love. The home care company is committed to helping people live their best life possible and also offers special programs for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Portions of this article were originally featured on blog.comforcare.com. ComForCare Home Care, 1700 Post Road, Suite E5, Fairfield, CT. (203) 612-8966.
ComForCare.com/FairfieldCT.
fairfieldct@comforcare.com.