Helping seniors understand or learn more about a medical diagnosis is crucial for their well-being and overall quality of life. As seniors age, their social circle tends to decrease, meaning the support they receive from loved ones and the elder care team is more important than ever. This blog explores some suggestions that the team can use to support seniors as they navigate challenging obstacles in their path. Continue reading to learn more.
- Clear Communication: The support team should start by ensuring clear and straightforward communication is used. This means using simple language, avoiding medical jargon, and providing information in small, digestible chunks. The elder care team should also encourage seniors to ask questions and express their concerns. The more they know, the better, even if that knowledge might be scary. In fact, when things get scary, it’s the perfect time for the support team to step in.
- Visual Aids: Many seniors find visual aids helpful. For this reason, using diagrams, charts, or models to illustrate key points about the medical condition might be a good idea. This is especially true when the information is more complex.
- Encourage Family or Caregiver Involvement: The elder care team can steer family members toward participating in discussions about the diagnosis with the medical team, support groups, and online groups. By showing them where to gain more information, they’re also helping loved ones connect with seniors as they process their own feelings about the diagnosis.
- Repeat Information: Repetition is key to learning and retaining information, especially for seniors. Repeat important details about the diagnosis during different conversations and in various formats, such as written materials or audio recordings. Both loved ones and the elder care team can do this, working in tandem to ensure that seniors have the information they need.
- Provide Written Information: While some seniors prefer visual aids, others might prefer reading. This allows them to review the information at their own pace. This can include pamphlets, brochures, or personalized notes summarizing key points. Written information serves as a helpful reference for seniors and their families.
- Access to Online Resources: If appropriate, seniors and their families can also find reputable online resources that provide additional information about the medical condition. However, it’s important to be cautious about the sources and ensure they are reliable and easy to understand.
- Encourage Second Opinions: Seniors may feel more confident in their understanding of the diagnosis if they hear it from multiple healthcare professionals. This can also provide an opportunity to address any lingering questions or concerns.
- Support Groups: Beyond support groups for loved ones, seniors should have the chance to connect as well. Sharing experiences with others who are dealing with similar diagnoses can provide valuable insights and emotional support.
- Empowerment and Decision-Making: It’s important for the elder care team to help seniors feel empowered in the decision-making process regarding their healthcare. It helps when treatment options and potential outcomes are clearly defined and a plan is created that aligns with their preferences and values.
Remember, each senior is unique, and tailoring the approach to their specific needs and preferences can significantly enhance their understanding and acceptance of the medical diagnosis. With the help of elder care and loved ones, seniors can thrive.
Sources:
https://dailycaring.com/7-tips-for-helping-seniors-at-the-doctors-being-a-health-advocate/
https://seniorsbluebook.com/articles/accepting-the-diagnosis
https://www.cdc.gov/healthliteracy/developmaterials/audiences/olderadults/understanding-decisions.html
https://www.healthinaging.org/tools-and-tips/tip-sheet-living-multiple-health-problems-what-older-adults-should-know
If you or an aging loved one is considering elder care in Castle Rock, CO, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY Home Care of Parker. 303-953-9924
