Pamela D. Wilson - The Care Navigator

We don’t often pay attention to the little things that happen with us because we don’t see them as anything major.  Sometimes we miss them entirely because we’re not observant of our own bodies.  However it’s these little things that quickly become major health issues if we don’t pay attention and take action.  A change in appetite or physical ability, not feeling good for more than a few days at a time, wanting to sleep more or being unable to sleep, a change in bowel habits.  All of these little things, especially in an older person may be indicative of a larger issue.  It’s important to see your doctor when small things happen to prevent them from becoming major issues in the future.  In this case prevention is the best medicine.

You’ve been diagnosed with short term memory loss but have difficulty believing the diagnosis.  How can you be forgetting things when you’ve always had a rock solid memory?  Anyone telling you that you’re forgetful is obviously wrong.  Let’s say it’s not you, but your loved one who is diagnosed.  Do you find yourself constantly correcting your loved one or becoming impatient because they forget information, do things out of character, lose keys or other items they’ve always kept track of?  Making a big deal or a scene about your loved one’s forgetfulness, especially if it’s not purposeful is cruel.  They can’t remember.  If you’re the one diagnosed with memory loss it’s time to make a plan for your future, because inevitably at the time when you need a plan most you’ll have little memory for the details.  If you find yourself in this place, a person with memory loss or a caregiver it’s time for education and making a long term care plan.

How many times has your physician brushed your comments aside saying “that’s just what happens when you get old”?  Many doctors today neither have the education, the time or the patience to serve an older population.  They lack empathy and consideration of what an aging person experiences.  If you find yourself in this situation it’s time to change doctors.  More on this subject this weekend on The Caring Generation, listen live through www.khow.com Sunday 10a-noon MST or in Denver at 630 KHOW-AM radio.  You can also visit the website to listen to this and past programs www.thecaringgeneration.com

Recently I admitted a client to a hospital where the physician immediately wanted to change medications without asking about medical history. Fortunately with this client I had years of experience and extensive background that I was able to provide. For family members if you find yourself in this situation be sure to step in and provide whatever information you have so that your loved one is not put through unnecessary changes due to lack of information.

Is your loved one experiencing depression, schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder or other mental health issues? Often individuals experiencing these issues have little insight into the situation. While it’s extremely difficult for family members it’s important to be empathetic and seek professional help. Don’t feel you have to manage alone, consult a professional.

When moving parents or loved ones it’s important to choose a mover familiar with the stresses of the situation. There are many moving companies for “things” and few moving companies for “lives”. A move for an older adult is stressful. Choose a moving company who understands the complexities of the situation and will work with you and your loved one to move a life well lived not just furniture well used.

Are you procrastinating or delaying a decision because you just don’t know what you need? Often lack of education or information places us in a rut that can last until a crises causes us to make a decision. Gather information, consult professionals and move past your ruts in order to avoid crises planning.

Choosing the right care community can be a daunting task. Small, medium sized, large, low cost, high cost, independent, assisted - there are so many varieties. Start planning early and you’ll have time to make a decision that will stick for the long run.

In 1997 AARP established a relationship with United Healthcare to sell Medicare gap insurance under the name AARP/Medicare Complete from Secure Horizons. According to a Washington Post article published 10/27/2009, AARP’s association with United Healthcare delivered $400 million in revenue which represents more on an annual basis that monies generated from membership. AARP is also spending $37 million lobbying in Washington for a government run health care bill that will put more money in their pocket. Who does AARP represent? The healthcare industry or vulnerable seniors who seek information, education and advocacy. It’s unclear. What’s your opinion?

Your parents live across country or in a city miles away. You’re aware they need help but you feel helpless. Offer them local support for services they require and if they don’t have the financial assets to pay, share costs with brothers and sisters. Then start making a plan for “what ifs”. What if mom and dad’s health becomes worse? What if mom or dad passes away? What if?