Caregivers Can Assist Parents at Medical Appointments Without Over-reaching
Dear Carol: My 84-year-old mom has minor memory issues that make it mandatory for me to accompany her to medical appointments. I help her remember what to tell the doctor as well as remind her what the doctor said after the fact. She recognizes that she needs help, but she’s easily angered if I actually offer it during the appointment. When I step in with a gentle comment about her becoming more forgetful, she glares at me and shuts down. If I mention looking over her medications, she’ll say, “I was just coming to that.” Maybe I’m pushing too hard, but these appointments are short. How can I handle this better? – WL
Dear WL: Accompanying older adults to medical appointments is frequently challenging. You know what needs to be addressed and that the person may not remember everything, but you also want to avoid looking as if you are taking over the appointment. You could ask your mom ahead of the appointment what she’d like to accomplish when she’s there. She might say, “Nothing much, but I’m supposed to go,” to which you could say…
Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories. “For anyone having to walk the last segments of life with a loved one, read this.” …Delores
Shop Silverts Adaptable clothing:
Discover the Difference. EGOSAN – the Top-Rated incontinence brand from Italy. Now Available on Amazon.
