Written by Rebecca Budde, SIU School of Medicine
Recent studies show that living to see 100 birthday candles may be the norm for babies born in first world countries since the year 2000.
Longer lifespans have created an unprecedented shift in the number of elderly in the United States. The proportion of older adults is also increasing as the first of the baby boomer generation began to fuel the 65 and over population in 2011. The last baby boomer will reach the age of 65 in 2030, making one of every five Americans age 65 or older.
Leading the charge in taking care of the elderly are the SIU physicians who embrace the philosophy of “treating the person, not the disease” as they integrate evidence-based and narrative medicine into their care. “Creating a dialogue is the first step in promoting health,” says Dr. Masaya Higuchi. Dr. Higuchi is the director of geriatric and palliative medicine for family and community medicine (FCM). Knowing the patients on a more personal level allows the physicians to help keep their patients aging healthily, according to Dr. Higuchi. “Respecting each individual and their values and dignity rather than pre-defining quality of life for them is important.”
Tips for talking to your doctor:
1. Make a list of questions you have for your doctor and items you want to discuss. Put your list in order of importance.
2. Think about how you will describe your symptoms.
3. During your visit, be sure that you understand any tests or procedures your doctor is recommending for you. Discuss possible alternatives to these tests.
4. Consider bringing a family member or friend with you so that you have someone to help you recall information and bring up concerns you might have forgotten.
Read more in aspects magazine.
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