When you’re trying to help an aging parent with their health, it may be especially tough when they refuse to see their doctor. The situation might be much more difficult if a diagnosis is required to develop a treatment plan. If you fear your aging parent is suffering from dementia, they must do a cognitive, medical, and neurological examination to rule out any other probable causes for their symptoms. Here are some tips for convincing your aging parent to see the doctor.
Understand Why
The first step is to try to figure out why your parent refuses to go to the doctor. You might be able to remedy the problem if you can figure out why. Listen attentively and quietly to pick up on any clues. Take care not to be too zealous. Going to the doctor can be stressful and intimidating for persons suffering from dementia. Others may be afraid of discovering what is wrong. Assure your parent that you will advocate for their viewpoint. If your parent is unable to provide a reason, consider some of the possibilities listed below.
Negotiate
Try to persuade your parent to go to the doctor by promising something pleasant in exchange. This may be taking a trip to the park, going out to lunch, or doing something else special. Inform your parent that doctor’s appointments will be few and far between, and that the two of you may decide when they are really necessary and when they are not. A collaborative strategy may result in a more cooperative outcome.
Telehealth
Telehealth has surged during the COVID-19 epidemic. It is the only method a doctor can interact with a patient when individuals are restricted to their homes. You can help to ensure internet access if your parent is at home. It may be more challenging if they are in assisted living unless they have a caretaker who can assist them. A telehealth visit allows the doctor to view and communicate with the patient face to face. A qualified doctor will notice visual clues that indicate dehydration or weight loss. A talk with your parent will disclose any problems with your thinking or logic.
Let Another Person Try
Someone else might be able to persuade your parent to go to the doctor. A close friend, another family member, or priest might be involved. You can even go so far as to request that the doctor’s office phone your parent and explain why they need to come in. Sometimes the physician’s authoritative voice will suffice. Suggest to your parent that someone else, such as another family member or a friend, take them to the doctor.
Choose Regency Pointe
Our retirement community is intended to make your golden years pleasurable and stress-free. Regency Pointe offers several senior living options, each with the proper care and services to meet our residents’ requirements. Whichever option you pick, you’ll find your days enlivened by professional and caring team members who are committed to providing individualized care and total satisfaction to our residents.