*Doctors and Appointments*

I am certain that anyone visiting this page has, in their lifetime, had many visits to different doctors. The doctors offices have been as various as the patients. Some offices are too cramped, offering little room to move, along with very little or no reading material. Some offices are spacious, and have furniture that should have been replaced a long time ago. If you are lucky, you may have a doctor who has updated, cleaned up, and put a little extra TLC into their waiting rooms. Whatever the case, below we offer a few suggestions to make your visits to the doctor a bit more bearable.

Very Important!

All of us feel a little apprehensive about doctor's appointments, and to have a little support is always welcomed. Therefore, accompany your senior. The outcome will be peace of mind for the both of you.

Helpful Hints for Doctors Appointments

When Scheduling an Appointment

1. Have a calendar at hand.
2. Be aware of other appointments you have scheduled.
3. Make it as far in advance that you can.
3. Ask for a time that is convenient for you.
4. Be prepared for questions from the scheduling receptionist regarding the purpose of your appointment.

Arriving for an Appointment

1. Try to arrive at least 15 minutes before, unless told otherwise.
2. Bring all necessary paperwork & insurance cards.
3. Bring a prepared list of all medications that you are taking.
4. Bring something your enjoy reading, or doing as you wait ( knitting, crossword puzzles etc.)
5. Be prepared to wait, but remind the receptionist when the time exceeds 30 minutes.

Meeting with the doctor

1. Be prepared to tell him or her exactly how you feel. Signs and symptons should not be ignored. It's better to mention problems rather than put them aside as, "not important".
2. Listen carefully
3. Ask questions, or for explanations.
4. Ask about the medications that will be prescribed. 

Medicine Record

Keep a list to help you and your doctor - perhaps a small notebook that is easily handled.

Consider keeping track of the following items in order to make your appointments easier.

Name of Medicine:

Dosage & Days:              

Date Started               

List Allergies:                      

Flu Vaccine:  (no) (yes)  date                  

Pneumonia Vaccine  (no) (yes) date

Pain:  location         Level of Pain       (less 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 worse)

Doctors often reference pain on a level of 1-10, but seniors can better explain their pain on a simple scale of 1-5. We strongly recommend using the scale of 1-5.