How Older Adults Can Ensure Their Health Is Always At Its Best

Many people may feel as though they’re trying their best to live healthy lives. However, there may come a time when you don’t feel heard or like you are making any progress. Multiple hospital stays and being on countless medications for a health issue that is not improving can be incredibly frustrating.

This is where being an advocate for your own health comes in. The times when the doctor’s word was final are long gone. You must play an active role in your healthcare to ensure you get positive results and maintain control over what happens to your body.

Consider Moving Into a Senior Living Facility

While this is a personal decision, admitting that you need help is one true way of advocating for your health. The negative impact of forgetting to take your medication or not having someone watch out for your health can be serious. Depending on your level of care, you can choose between an assisted living facility or a nursing home. Although both provide care, a nursing home provides more comprehensive care to those who need it.

Live a Healthier Lifestyle

Prevention is always better than cure. There is no better way to advocate for your health than ensuring you remain well and avoid hospitals altogether. Many people spend their days in London seated in their offices. If that describes you, consider taking walks on your lunch break and use the stairs rather than the lift.

Also, take time for activities you genuinely enjoy to beat the effects of stress. Watch your diet, hydrate, and use moderation with alcoholic beverages to keep both your physical and mental health in excellent shape.

Maintain Copies of All Your Health Records and Imaging

If you live in London, keep all the correspondence you’ve received from your doctor. If you have insurance and need to make a claim, your insurance provider may request these reports and correspondence.

Keeping all your imaging and records will also make things more seamless when changing GPs or seeking a specialist. Some mobile apps allow you to upload photos of all your imaging, merge them into one file, and then download the file for your records. You can also use online apps and tools that will help you with combining multiple pages into a single PDF. This way, you won’t have multiple files taking up space on your phone or tablet.

Trust Your Instincts

This is probably the most important point. While doctors and specialists have the theory, only you have lived the symptoms and know your body best. Share exactly what you feel, and don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion. Chronic disease flare-ups can be frustrating to explain to doctors. If you’re not satisfied, seek a second opinion and keep all of your doctors aware of your progress. Don’t take no for an answer until you are heard.

Take Control and Be Healthy

As a patient, taking a passive role is easy — especially considering the weight of your illness. However, medical staff is often overworked and things get forgotten. Taking control of your healthcare will help you avoid severe mishaps and get you back on the road to health faster.