With illness and age affecting us all, we often become forgetful or overlook our health. Expressing every detail of how we feel to medical and healthcare providers can become an additional task. Medical appointments often involve complex information, including diagnoses, treatment plans, and medication instructions. Forgetting key points about our health can lead to further complications, which is why additional memory support is essential. 

This is where medical advocacy for the elderly can greatly benefit. It is the provision of a medical escort for those who want or need it. According to John Hopkins Medicine, “older adults are especially likely to benefit from having another person with them during medical visits.”

How does it work?

A caregiver will attend any appointments or hospital visits with you, giving and receiving information from medical staff to help you and your family understand what is happening. They may or may not be medically trained, but will act as a communicator on your behalf. They will have a clear understanding of your health, including your medications, and will learn and discuss results and medical recommendations with you, your family, or other follow-up practitioners. 

Caregivers will translate what doctors and nurses are asking or telling each client, ensuring all necessary information is communicated effectively. Typically, a record of this information is kept for future reference through notes or recordings. For older adults with mobility issues or cognitive impairments, having another person can enhance safety during the visit, including helping them get to and from the appointment and addressing any immediate needs.

Why is medical advocacy for the elderly needed?

Medical visits can be anxiety-provoking or stressful. Having someone there can provide emotional support, reassurance, and a sense of comfort, making the experience less daunting. 

Seniors are often the invisible population in our society and having another person present for them can help ensure that their medical visits are as productive, clear, and supportive as possible. By having a sharp set of eyes and ears accompanying an elder to doctor appointments or hospital visits, no symptom goes unheard and undocumented.