Sandwiched
I was beyond thrilled recently to discover and work with a new physician to help guide us along my mother’s healthcare path. We love this lady so much that my husband and I have switched to her! For the sake of confidentiality, we’ll call this physician “Dr. H.”
We found Dr. H. through my mother’s “angel,” Michelle, who deserves an entire column or two. Michelle is a nurse who works in local assisted living facilities helping older folks and their families. She assists with various needs like doctor appointments and odds and ends that can be difficult to take care of when you’re working full-time.
I’ll be blunt – we haven’t been thrilled with the doctor at the facility. Also, for the sake of confidentiality, we’ll call this person “Dr. X.” While Dr. X has been charming and funny working with Mom, he’s done … well … I’ll just say “diddly squat” for her (to put things as nicely as possible).
When my mom was having bladder issues, Dr. X just simply told her “don’t worry about it.” Really? Who wouldn’t worry when their bladder isn’t working right? I was not pleased to say the least.
Thankfully we had already seen Dr. H a few times, so Michelle was able to take her for a visit. We are now on the path to some good answers for Mom’s dilemma.
Dr. H truly listens to us and takes her time to understand Mom during each and every appointment. She weighs the best options for her treatment and discusses their pros and cons in simple language, helping Mom feel confident about her choices.
And, she delivers the not-so-fun news and directions to Mom that wouldn’t go over well coming from me. Frankly, sometimes things are better received when a doctor tells your elderly parent to do something vs. when you do it!
We’re visiting Dr. H now every three months, which gives my siblings and me tremendous peace of mind. We’re not experts on the struggles and ailments of the elderly. At times it’s hard to know what’s normal and what we need to be concerned about. By seeing this delightful physician on a quarterly basis, our confidence has grown.
If you’re taking care of an elderly parent and haven’t found a good physician for him or her, I encourage you to do all you can to find someone you both trust and feel good about seeing regularly. It’s one of the most loving, caring things you can do for your mom or dad and it helps lift a weight from your own shoulders as well.
And, PSST! Dr. H is accepting new patients. If you’re local and would like more info, please email me at grantsavenue@gmail.com.