We learned six months ago that our elder could not remember what her doctor said to her during an office visit.
I called and asked her (the elder), and she said the doctor didn't say a word.
She just sat and typed.
I know that's not the case, because I get an e-mail copy of the office visit results.
This incident made it abundantly clear to all of us that someone had to go with her to every doctor's visit.
As I'm her medical power of attorney, I was elected.
Here are a few of the things I had to find out.
What medical problems does my elder have? This is of primary importance, for several reasons.
One of the most important is diet.
Many medical conditions require certain limitations on different types of food.
Without this information, it's hard to do much to help.
Can you say that in English? Doctors often rattle off medical jargon that is hard to understand.
It's much easier to have the doctor rephrase his or her comment than to wait and look it up on-line at home.
What physical restrictions does s/he have? Many challenges elders face are restrictions of movement.
Arthritis is a good example.
While some exercise is important, there will be restrictions on which to use.
Is the elder still able to live at home without help? Several medical conditions may make it impossible for an elder to live alone.
Dementia is one such condition.
Our elder requires some help, which we've provided.
We know the time is coming when she needs 24/7 care.
The doctor and caregiver can tell us when that time comes.
What is the elder's life expectancy? This is an important question to ask if an elder has a serious medical condition.
If life expectancy is short, it might be time to call hospice.
If it's longterm, budgeting and where the elder is going to stay has to be decided.
These questions will help you find other questions.
It will also help you get to know your elder's doctor and build a relationship of trust.
That will help your elder have better quality of life.