Regular doctors’ visits are vital to monitor health, address new symptoms, and maintain overall wellbeing. To make the most of your doctor’s visit, we’ve compiled a list of our top 12 tips for a productive senior doctor’s appointment, along with some questions to ask your doctor.
Be upfront with the scheduler about your needs.
When you call to make an appointment, tell the scheduler on the phone that you want to have an in-depth conversation with the doctor.
The receptionist will likely put you on the doctor’s schedule for a set time period based on the appointment type.
For example, an annual check-up may last 45 minutes, while going over test results might only be 15 minutes. If you have additional questions to ask your doctor or want extra face time, let the scheduler know when making your appointment so they can allot the necessary time.
Call GoGoGrandparent to bring you to your appointment.
Don’t stress about how you’re going to get to your senior doctor’s appointment. Schedule a GoGoRide in advance, and we’ll have a car ready to pick you up and take you to your appointment. Our GoGoGuardians vet professional drivers and screen cars to make sure you have a safe, comfortable, and accessible ride. We also monitor your trip, so you can have peace of mind that you’re taken care of. So, all you need to do is sit back, relax, and think about which questions to ask your doctor.
Learn more about GoGoGrandparent Rides here.
Leave for your appointment early.
Arriving on time for your appointment ensures you don’t cut into your appointment time and the time you have available to chat with your doctor. Leaving early will also ensure you’re not rushing or stressing about getting to your senior doctor’s appointment, so you can sit back and relax in your GoGoGrandparent Ride.
Plan to spend extra time at the doctor’s office.
Doctors can get backed up with patients, especially with recent healthcare challenges. Don’t schedule back-to-back appointments with multiple doctors or social events in case one of your senior doctor’s appointments takes longer than expected.
Keep track of your symptoms.
In the days, weeks, and months leading up to your senior doctor’s appointment, keep a journal of all your recent symptoms, including when they occur, how long they last, and what they feel like. This will help ensure you don’t forget any symptoms and remind you of questions to ask your doctor. A symptom journal can help your doctor diagnose and treat you, and it will help determine whether current treatment plans are working.
Bring a companion.
Having a loved one join you at your senior doctor’s appointment can be beneficial to your health and experience. Your companion may be able to help you remember which symptoms to discuss and questions to ask your doctor. They can also help take notes during the appointment and give their input about a treatment plan. Plus, having a loving support system by your side never hurts.
Decide which questions to ask your doctor.
Knowing which questions to ask your doctor before you go will make your appointment as productive as possible. We recommend keeping a journal of all the questions to ask your doctor as you think of them, so you have them on hand when your senior doctor’s appointment rolls around. You may also want to mark or star those questions to ask your doctor that are most important because you may have limited time during your appointment.
Here are some common questions to ask your doctor during a senior doctor’s appointment:
- Do I need any vaccines this season (like flu, shingles, pneumonia, etc.)?
- Should I be taking any vitamins or supplements?
- Which exercises should I be doing for my specific health concerns?
- What sorts of foods should I be eating?
- Should any changes be made to my medications?
- Should I stop driving?
- Are the signs/symptoms I am experiencing normal?
- What annual screenings do you recommend?
Keeping a list of questions to ask your doctor allows you to take control of your health, so you can get the answers you need to improve your quality of life.
Be honest and open with your doctor.
Some symptoms can be uncomfortable to share, but don’t worry. Your doctor has heard it all, and they are not judging you. It’s essential to be honest and open about your symptoms so your physician can effectively diagnose and treat you. If you have noticed any changes in your physical, mental, or emotional health, even if the symptoms seem minor, it’s worth letting your doctor know during your senior doctor’s appointment.
Ask for clarification.
If you don’t understand something your doctor says, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. Your doctor doesn’t want you feeling confused or uncertain about your treatments or procedures. If you go home and are still unsure, don’t be afraid to call with questions to ask your doctor for further explanation.
Write down the doctor’s instructions.
You don’t need to take notes about everything the doctor says, but it doesn’t help to take a small notepad and pen to write down instructions, treatments, what was discussed, and any recommended treatments or procedures. This is a great way to keep track of your health, and the notebook can be a resource for you with other doctors and future appointments. Your family members or caretakers may also want to review your notes to better assist with implementing any new treatment plans.
Keep a list of your prescriptions to have delivered.
Before going to the doctor, make a list of all the prescriptions you currently take, including dosage and frequency. This will give your doctor a comprehensive look at your health, and they can look for any potential interactions between medications.
After your senior doctor’s appointment, you can update this prescription list to help you stay organized and on top of your health. You can then work with GoGoGrandparent’s prescription delivery service, so you can have all your prescriptions delivered right to your door, so you always have your medications on hand when you need them.
Don’t be afraid to get a second opinion.
If you were unsatisfied with the first doctor’s diagnosis, bedside manner, or treatment plan, don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion. Even if you liked the first doctor, coming up with additional questions to ask your doctor and getting another perspective is a great way to ensure you’re taking the proper steps forward.
Bonus: Register for GoGoGrandparent!
Make getting to the doctor easier and smoother with GoGoGrandparent.
Our GoGoRides let you easily catch a ride with just a quick phone call to one of our friendly operators. You can schedule your ride in advance or catch a ride in the next 15 minutes, so you can get to your senior doctor’s appointment stress-free and with plenty of time. Register with GoGoGrandparent now to get started!
