Can someone please explain why men are the worst patients?

Asked by tropicalbreeze  |  Sep 1, 2010

I have to give him eye drops and you'd think that it was the worst calamity ever...

Answer This Question

 
 
 
  •  Answers 1 to 3 of 3 
 
 

Carol Bradley Bursack, Sep 2, 2010

Over the span of two decades author, columnist and speaker Carol Bradley Bursack cared for a neighbor and six elderly family members. Because of this experience, Bradley Bursack created a portable support group, the book "Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories."

 

LOL! That's common. My take is that men like to be "in charge" and any health issue hurts their ego. Then they turn into little boys with "mommy" taking care of them, and this makes them cranky. Don't tell anyone I said so :)
It's well known that doctor's make the worst patients. Part of that may be because they "know too much," but in the past most doctors were men, so they had a double whammy - loss of power in two ways.

This is something you'll have to just accept. He can't help it. He hates feeling that he needs help. Try to have compassion for his feeling of loss and helplessness. You are the strong one.
Take care,
Carol

 
 

NancyH

Give a Hug

Sep 1, 2010

Maybe men were just more controlling than women were when he was younger and taking care of a family. Now he has to relinquish control to one of his children! I'm such a control freak now, my poor husband someday.....

 
 

rip

Give a Hug

Sep 1, 2010

Hey Tropical!
Nice to see you!
ah ... the eye drop dilema. You hit home on another familiar topic. The #@$!% eyedrops.

Dad had retina surgery several years ago & needed them twice a day. He was a big baby! Finally his buddy at the institution who loves being involved, took it upon himself to do the duty.
It was comical! Had Dad lay on the couch with his head draped over the arm. Dad would be flinching around, Eric was trying to steady his hand with the tiny bottle. Somehow they managed!

The little bottle the size of my thumbnail cost over $80 so every drop was precious.
I should have given Dad a bullet to bite on ... manly thing.

 
  •  Answers 1 to 3 of 3 

Answer this Question

Please stay on topic or ask a new question.

Find Senior Housing And Care That Fits You Needs

I am looking for:
Search location:











Housing


Care


Join the Discussion

Have a question? Just need to vent? Find answers and support from the real experts - other caregivers!

Stay Connected

Sign up for our newsletter and receive practical tips and support for caregivers

 

Like AgingCare.com on Facebook