Sandwiched
I did something rather unusual a couple of weeks ago. I went to the doctor for a check-up – for ME. It was right before the pandemic hit us full force. (I know check ups and other non-urgent appointments/procedures are being delayed currently.)
The reason this was unusual is that I didn’t go for one of my kids, my husband, or my mother, which is my typical reason for visiting a healthcare facility. And I know that’s the scenario for most caregivers.
I did go for a check-up in 2019 as well, but before that it had been four years since I’d seen a doctor. I wouldn’t have gone last year, except a friend basically yelled at me to “get your butt in for a checkup ASAP!”
Most sandwich generation members like me are working, managing their families and homes, and taking care of one or more parents. Finding the time to see a doctor is almost laughable.
But, the saying is true – we can’t take care of others if we’re not taking care of ourselves. I had been doing things like eating right, exercising, and getting enough sleep. Before 2016, I faithfully saw the doctor for check-ups thanks to working in Noblesville City Hall with its clinic literally down the hallway.
With my position getting eliminated in late 2015 and me eventually moving on to working for myself and getting the most basic health insurance, I stopped seeing the doctor for any reason. Getting on my husband’s health plan through his work is way too expensive for our budget.
And my check-up last year was disappointing. I’m approaching menopause and told my former doctor how I was dealing with the various challenges in this stage of life. I was hoping she would give me suggestions and/or verify I was doing the right things. Instead I got some shrugs and murmurs. I did get a blood test, but never got a follow-up call about the results. I figured everything was probably fine.
Fast forward to this year’s appointment with the wonderful Dr. H. I was oddly excited about this year’s check-up because I knew she would listen and give me good guidance. I wasn’t disappointed with this visit.
Overall I’m doing what I should for a 49-year-old woman, although my herbal remedies have stopped helping with the hot flashes. Dr. H. told me about a low-dose anti-depressant that could help if I needed it.
She also looked over my blood test results from last year since her facility is in the same healthcare network and expressed concern about a slightly low calcium level. I’m now taking vitamin D supplements and eating more yogurt to help.
I’m so glad I went in for my check-up! I can’t imagine what would have happened if I hadn’t taken the time to see her. I need to keep my bones strong to perform my caregiver duties!
Please, if you’re in the sandwich generation and haven’t seen a doctor in a long time, mark your calendar to set up your appointment once the COVID-19 situation improves. You’ll be glad you did.