Taking Control of Your Health: Ntl Organize Your Medical Info Month
When it comes to home organization, over half of American households are overwhelmed by clutter. Not only does clutter cause us to waste time looking for misplaced items, it can also increase stress. Growing older is already stressful enough. Older adults can benefit greatly from having their medical information organized and eliminate the stress of having to sort through documents in the event of a medical emergency.
October is National Organize Your Medical Information Month. As we settle into the autumn season, now is the perfect time to sort through the stacks of paper and get your medical information in order. If you’re lacking motivation, here are three reasons why it matters and tips to help you get started.
Helps You Better Understand Your Health
Many older adults see multiple healthcare providers each year, from primary care physicians to specialists such as podiatrists, cardiologists, or ophthalmologists. Keeping an organized record of treatment plans and medications helps older adults follow directions as prescribed. It can also prevent errors, such as detrimental medication interactions, especially when multiple doctors are writing prescriptions. Get started by establishing a medical file for yourself. Use a separate file folder for each doctor you see and file your summary visits immediately after each appointment. Before your next appointment, review your previous summary to help you have a better conversation with your doctor.
Ensures Safer Care
Another reason why it’s important to organize your medical information is that it ensures you receive safer care. Most physicians aren’t able to access patient records outside of their network, which means if you’re receiving care from multiple providers in different medical networks, your doctor is relying on you to keep them informed. The best way to do this is to maintain an accurate medical record about yourself. Establish the habit of keeping personal health records. Note how you feel after starting a new medication, log factors such as blood pressure or blood sugar, and record symptoms you experience, including change in appetite, or activity and stress levels.
Empowers You to Be a Better Advocate
Lastly, having your medical information organized empowers older adults to become better advocates for themselves. Keeping a current medical record allows older adults to be an active partner in their care. Appointments are no longer passive; instead, your brief time with your doctor can be productive as you work with your healthcare provider to make decisions about your health plan together. Organized medical information is also extremely beneficial for family caregivers; allowing them to be on the same page so that they can help advocate too. Speaking of family, older adults should ensure a trusted family has access to important medical documents, such as living will, DNR forms, and healthcare power of attorney.
Local Resources in Appleton, WI
If you’re ready to get started, but need a little help, there are several organizations in the area that can help seniors and their families get their medical information organized.
Aging & Disability Resource Center of Outgamie County – provides information and assistance to seniors about services, resources, and programs, including help with legal issues.
Thompson Center on Lourdes – offers several ways to seniors to connect with others, engage in activities, and learn from professionals, such as estate planning and important medical documents to keep.
Wisconsin Department of Health Services – provides programs, resources, and education to seniors and their families, as well as information about advance directives.
Mosaic Family Health – offers family caregiver support and hosts a monthly caregiver support group where family caregivers can learn how to advocate for their aging loved ones and connect with other caregivers.
If you are a senior and feel overwhelmed with clutter around the home or simply need assistance with everyday tasks, Visiting Angels Appleton is here to help. We provide home care assistance to seniors who need help maintaining their well-being. Our compassionate caregivers can assist with light housekeeping and home organization, ensuring your pathways remain clutter-free. They can also escort you to doctor appointments and either wait in the waiting room or take notes to pass along to your family. These are just a few of the ways we’re making a difference in the lives of seniors. To learn more about our exceptional home care assistance, please contact us today by calling 920-944-8000.