Maintaining optimal health in old age requires regular medical checkups. However, some elderly people may be resistant when it’s time for their appointment. There are numerous things that home care providers can do to make older citizens more comfortable with doctor’s visits, even if this can occur for a number of different reasons. Keep in mind that home care providers may need the assistance of family members to help encourage a senior to go to their doctor’s appointment.
Here are some ways to make this upcoming appointment easier.
Talk About the Appointment in Advance
It’s not a good idea for caregivers to take their elderly loved ones to the doctor on a whim. Instead, find a quiet time to get with the elderly person and explain why you’re taking them to the doctor. Then, inquire as to whether or not the senior has any worries regarding your planned visit. Even just a phone call from family members can help encourage a senior to go to the doctor.
Talk About Any Concerns Your Senior Has
Elderly people who refuse to accept their appointment may provide an explanation. Some people deny any problems exist, while others may be too afraid to admit they need help. Give careful attention to each worry and reassuring words.
Ask Them If They Want Someone Else In the Appointment Such as a Home Care Aide
As senior citizens share their worries, they might be supportive of providing possible answers. For some elders, it may help to have a trusted friend or family member accompany them. Encourage them or offer a companion, similar to home care providers. If they don’t want anyone to join them in the appointment, have them write down a list of concerns so they don’t forget what they want to talk about.
Have a Way for Them to Get There and Use Activities to Keep Them Distracted
Some elderly patients may be concerned about how they will get to their scheduled appointment. However, driving in a strange location may be intimidating for anybody, regardless of age. When going to the doctor causes anxiety, scheduling a ride there and back is a simple solution.
Anxiety overseeing the doctor may rise as the patient waits. If possible, carry along a small bag of food and entertainment options to keep the senior occupied throughout any delays. When waiting, pass the time with card games, periodicals, or audio novels.
Plan an outing with the elder as a form of positive reinforcement after the scheduled visit. A senior’s confidence may be bolstered for the following visit by various means, including a trip out to lunch, a modest gift, or simply some praise on the car ride home.
It’s time to talk to your senior about why they’re avoiding the doctor and figure out solutions to make it easier to go. Their doctor may also have ideas on how to get them to their appointment easier. Other doctors may also do house visits, which can make a senior feel much more comfortable seeing their healthcare professional.
