It’s hard to prepare for every possible scenario when it comes to being your dad’s medical advocate. He may be fine one month and struggling with health issues the next. When he needs you to step in and advocate for him, do you know what he wants or what to tell medical professionals and senior care specialists?
You must know how to advocate for him. If his needs are changing, it’s important to have plans of action in time. These are the questions you need to be ready to ask.
How Is His Health?
Keep up-to-date with your dad’s health. If he has any health issues, you need to know. You have to know if his health has him taking prescription or over-the-counter medications. You need to know if he takes any herbal or vitamin supplements.
One area of concern is dementia. If your dad has been diagnosed with dementia, he may not be able to speak for himself. He won’t remember answers to questions about his health or activities. Be prepared to answer those answers.
Know his health history. If he’s had past surgeries, doctors may need to know this. If he has any plates, pins, or other surgical devices in his body, now where and why. Repairs from fractures, sprains, and strains are all things a doctor may need to know before an MRI can be completed.
Have Paperwork in Place
Make sure you’re legally able to make decisions for him. If you have a medical power of attorney, it’s the best way to advocate for him. That piece of paper will make sure doctors listen and take your advice to heart.
If your dad has an advance directive, keep a copy of it. You want to be able to quickly state if he wants to be put on a ventilator or given a feeding tube.
Know His Wishes When It Comes to Care at Home
Talk to your dad about senior care services. He may not be comfortable having senior care aides help with his bills. You might need to offer to help with that. He may not want you helping with laundry. Hire caregivers for that.
Use the Services of a Senior Care Agency to Fill Gaps
Once you’ve talked to his doctor, gather the family. You need to discuss what his needs are at home and how you and your siblings can help him. If he needs someone to drive him to appointments, make sure he has someone on his appointment days.
There may be gaps where you and your other family members cannot be there for your dad. If you are working, have school-aged children, or other obligations, you can’t ignore it. You can also make sure your dad still is supported by hiring senior care aides.
Caregivers can cook his meals, drive him around, and keep his house clean. Check into companionship services, too. Your dad will have company as often as he needs and remain independent as he ages at home.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering senior care in Englewood, CO, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY HomeCare today. Call us at (303) 756-9322.
