How to Improve Quality of Life for Older Americans

Illness and treatment for illness can affect an older individual’s quality of life in several different areas. However, taking charge of your health care can give you more choices, as aging and illness need not rob you of control of your life, or make you feel less independent. It may be a challenge, but there are ways you can participate actively in the management of your health and improve your quality of life…

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Learn as much as you can about any existing medical conditions. Information empowers by helping you to make more informed decisions about your health. Don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor about trying new treatments. Consider yourself to be your own best advocate for quality health care. If you are dissatisfied with the health care you are receiving, let your doctor know it. Think of yourself as being in partnership with the health care professionals providing your care.
2. Keep an accurate, updated list of all your medications, including any over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements or herbal remedies that you may take. Be sure to indicate the proper dosage and number of times per day the medication is taken. Never hesitate to ask the pharmacist specific questions about any drugs being prescribed.
3. Focus on coping with pain. People who suffer from chronic pain need not experience a lower quality of life. You can learn how to manage pain more effectively through exercise, better education, altering your environment, and the power of positive thinking. Support groups offer individuals the opportunity to meet and share with others living with similar difficulties.
4. Take advantage of preventive services offered to improve health. Preventive services are an important aspect of healthy living, and may include advice from your health care professionals. Discuss with your primary care physician what preventive services you may require based on your medical history. Older adults should have weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels checked regularly.

Tips & Warnings

• Often pain is mismanaged because patients fail to tell their doctors just how badly they are feeling. It is important not to minimize the severity of pain when talking to your doctor.