Anytime you’re talking with your doctor, you want the conversation to feel comfortable and straightforward. But as you get older, your health visits may start to feel rushed or confusing. You might not be sure how to bring up concerns or feel like your doctor isn’t listening to you.
You deserve to be heard, understood and supported at every age and every step of your health journey. Good communication helps your doctor understand your goals, priorities and what you need to stay active and independent.
Why health communication gets harder with age
If visits with your provider feel more challenging now than they used to, there are real reasons for that. April Ehrlich, MD, a geriatric medicine specialist with Banner - University Medicine, said that as a senior, you’re more likely than a younger person to be dealing with:
- Several health conditions: You may have different concerns you need to manage.
- Long medication lists: You’re probably taking several different medications.
- Short appointment times: Visits have gotten shorter over the years.
- Hearing or vision changes: It may be harder for you to understand your provider or read printed handouts and messages in your health portal.
- Memory changes: This can make it more difficult to remember unfamiliar medical terms and other information.
- Mobility changes: You may have trouble getting to the phone in time to answer scheduling or physician calls.
- Technology challenges: You may struggle with rapidly changing technologies.
- Financial challenges: If you are on a tight fixed income, you may not have access to a telephone or the internet.
Don’t be afraid to let your doctor know anything you are struggling with. That helps them care for you better. With the right tools, you can partner with your doctor more confidently.
Preparing for your appointment
A little preparation can help your visit go more smoothly so you feel less anxious and more confident.
“Use a calendar to record dates, times and the purpose of each visit. If you use a smartphone, set appointment reminders for the day before and that morning,” Dr. Ehrlich said.
She recommends using a journal or binder to organize all of your health information, especially if you see different specialists. Include:
- The names of all your doctors
- Your medications, supplements and vitamins and why you take them
- Records of blood pressure, blood sugar or other medical items you track
- Upcoming appointments
Before your appointment:
- Write down any new symptoms and what makes them better or worse.
- Note how symptoms affect your day and whether they cause issues with walking, sleeping or memory.
- List your top three concerns so you don’t forget them.
- Think about your goals like staying independent, easing pain or improving strength.
“If organizing materials feels overwhelming, ask a care partner to help set things up,” Dr. Ehrlich said.
Talking about your symptoms clearly
Your doctor understands you best when you describe symptoms in simple, specific terms. Don’t downplay your symptoms.
Try explaining:
- When the symptom started
- How often it happens
- What it feels like
- What helps it or makes it worse
- How it affects your daily routines
Tips for communicating during the visit
Your questions and concerns are important. Guide the conversation with a few simple strategies:
- Give clear examples, like, “I feel unsteady when I get out of bed.”
- Ask your doctor to write their recommendations down if you have memory issues.
- Ask them to repeat information, slow down, use a lower tone of voice or provide printed instruction if you have trouble hearing.
- Request large-print materials if you have vision problems.
- Use a “teach-back” approach: “Let me repeat this to be sure I understand…”
- If English is not your primary language, request an interpreter even if you speak some English.
“If you struggle to remember the doctor’s recommendations, take a care partner, a trusted person who can help you with your medical care, with you to the visit,” Dr. Ehrlich said.
Questions seniors can ask
Asking the right questions gives you a clearer picture of your care. Consider asking:
- What preventive screenings or vaccines do I need?
- Do I still need all my specialists?
- How can I keep my memory and mobility strong?
For treatments, ask:
- What are the risks and benefits at my age?
- Are there simpler or safer treatment options?
- How will this affect my independence or routine?
- What symptoms should I watch for?
- When should I come back?
“Confirm that all your questions have been answered before leaving the appointment,” Dr. Ehrlich said.
Talking about your medications safety
You may take several medications, which can make side effects more likely. In your visit, ask:
- What is this medication for?
- Could any of my medications interact with each other?
- Will my medication increase my fall risk or make me feel sleepy or confused?
- Do I still need to take all of my medications?
Navigating new technology in health care
Many health care systems now rely on digital tools like patient portals, online scheduling and electronic messages. This shift may feel frustrating or overwhelming. You may prefer speaking to someone directly or find it difficult to navigate online systems.
Helpful tips:
- Ask staff to help set up your patient portal.
- Bring your phone or tablet to your appointment so they can show you how to use it.
- Request printed summaries, not just digital ones.
- Use larger screens or readers if you have vision issues.
- Ask if there is a direct nurse or triage line you can call.
- Involve a caregiver or family member if that makes things easier.
- Set up notifications so you know when new messages or test results are available.
- Change the portal language to one you prefer.
- Tell your doctor or clinic if technology is a barrier for you.
After the appointment
Once you are home:
- Review your visit summary
- Track any new symptoms or side effects
- Follow through with tests, referrals or new medications
- Call or message your doctor if something is unclear
Advocating for yourself over time
If you feel that a concern wasn’t fully addressed, it’s okay to say so. You can say:
- “I still have concerns about my balance/pain/memory.”
- “Can we talk more about this at my next visit?”
- “I think I may need a second opinion.”
If you regularly feel unheard, you may want to change to a new provider.
Talking about future care and preferences
As you age, it helps to talk about what matters most to you:
- Your goals for independence
- How you want to receive care
- Advance directives and power of attorney
Documenting these choices helps guide future care.
How Banner Health supports seniors
At Banner Health, our primary care and geriatric specialists understand your needs. Whether you prefer in-person visits or virtual care, our compassionate team is here to listen and work with your health goals.
If you want a provider who hears you and understands your needs, schedule an appointment with a Banner Health provider today.
