Giving and getting information are two important steps in talking with your doctor. The third big step is making decisions about your loved one's care.
Ask about different treatments. You will benefit most from a treatment when you know what is happening and what is involved in making decisions. Make sure you understand what the treatment involves and what it will or will not do. Have the doctor give you directions in writing and feel free to ask questions. For example: "What are the pros and cons of having surgery at this stage?" or "Do we have any other choices?" If your doctor suggests a treatment that makes you uncomfortable, ask if there are other treatments that might work. Here are some things to remember when deciding on a treatment:
- Discuss choices. There are different ways to manage many health conditions, especially chronic conditions like high blood pressure and cholesterol. Ask what your options are.
- Discuss risks and benefits. Once you know the options, ask about the pros and cons of each one. Find out what side effects might occur, how long the treatment would continue, and how likely it is that the treatment will work for you.
- Consider your parent's values and circumstances. When thinking about the pros and cons of a treatment, don't forget to consider its impact on your overall life. For instance, will one of the side effects interfere with a regular activity that means a lot to your parent? Is one treatment choice expensive and not covered by insurance? Doctors need to know about these practical matters and can work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs.
The National Institute on Aging (NIA), one of the 27 Institutes and Centers of the National Institute of Health (NIH) leads a broad scientific effort to understand the nature of aging and to extend the healthy, active years of life. In 1974, Congress granted authority to form NIA to provide leadership in aging research, training, health information dissemination, and other programs relevant to aging and older people.