Caregivers: Here’s what you need to know before a doctor visit

As a caregiver, you may regularly accompany your caree to doctors’ appointments. And when you get there, it’s important to know the right things to say and do so that you can proactively protect your caree’s health. Below are a few good tips to keep in mind.

Be prepared

Write down any questions or concerns you have about the patient or appointment beforehand so you don’t forget. Be sure to note any change in the caree’s symptoms or condition since the last appointment. Even if you don’t think a change is significant, mention it anyway. You never know when something will turn out to be crucial. Also, keep a list of all medications your caree takes. This should include the name, dosage and frequency of each medication.

If your loved one is having trouble communicating, bring along a list of their symptoms or behaviors. This will help the care team understand what is going on and how to best help your loved one. Be prepared to provide information about your loved one’s medical history. This will help the care team understand your loved one’s health history and make informed decisions about their care.

Take notes

No matter how good your memory is, don’t count on it alone to see you through the appointment. Bring a pen and notepad or record the session on your phone so you can go over it later. If your caree is cognitively able to ask questions, record the answers to these as well.

Ask questions

Asking questions is one of the most important things you can do when it comes to your caree’s medical needs. By asking questions, you can make sure that you understand the options and make the best decision for your caree or report those options back to other family members. Questions can also help you to learn more about the condition and how to manage it. This way you can discuss it later with your caree. Remember to ask questions about side effects of medications and treatments.

Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if you don’t understand something. The care team should be able to explain things in a way that you can understand.

Don’t forget to follow-up

As any good doctor (and caregiver) knows, the follow-up is just as important as the appointment itself. Get any new or changed prescriptions from the pharmacy. Update any medication lists you have for your caree. Make follow-up appointments and schedule tests, calling for any test results, if necessary. Take advantage of resources that the care team has to offer. Many times, they can provide you with information or referrals to other services that can help you and your loved one.