There’s frequently nothing “routine” about a routine checkup. You may arrive to your appointment perfectly fine, but leave with orders for blood work and other medical tests the doctor recommends to keep you as healthy as possible. These tests may be nothing more than a small inconvenience for you, but it’s important to understand how medical tests affect seniors differently. They can be especially challenging for many reasons: transportation problems, thinner skin, mobility issues, fragile veins, cognitive difficulties, and more.
There are actions you can take to advocate for an older family member who is navigating medical tests. For example:
Providing a urine or stool sample can be challenging. Ask the doctor for any suggestions to help make the process less difficult, for example, a receptacle to position over the toilet instead of using a cup. Ensure the bathroom floor is clean and dry and that any bathmats or throw rugs are removed, and encourage the person to hold onto a grab bar during the collection process to prevent a fall.
Find out if tests can be carried out in the individual's home. Home health care is becoming an increasingly viable option for blood work along with other tests.
In the event that the individual needs to have a test done outside of the home, call ahead to the facility where it will be performed. Find answers to any specific questions you have about drop-off location, parking, the best time of day to schedule for the test, etc.
How Can Home Care Services Help an Older Adult Who Needs Medical Tests?
An in-home caregiver from The Care Company, a trusted provider of home care in Toronto and the surrounding areas, can:
Take notes to ensure doctors’ orders are understood and followed
Pick up prescriptions and provide medication reminders to ensure that meds are taken exactly as prescribed
Provide transportation and accompaniment to medical appointments, tests, and procedures, while assisting with mobility support as needed
Assist the individual in getting settled safely back at home afterwards, and provide companionship and oversight to watch for any changes in condition that need to be reported
And much more
Also, many people feel more comfortable receiving assistance for sensitive medical matters from an experienced professional. Our caregivers are skilled in discreet and respectful support with personal care needs, allowing family members to step back and provide the senior with privacy.
Reach out to us at (416) 422-2273 to arrange for the support necessary for someone you love. We offer a free in-home consultation to help you understand your options, so contact us today!