Soar to Success April 2018

SOAR TO SUCCESS / April 2018 / Personal Growth Strategies Why You Need an Advocate By Wendy Long T oday’shealthcaresystemisbetter, yet ina constant state of change, nowmore than ever. There are so many advancements in treatments, therapies and the delivery of health care, in general, it is undeniable that the V\VWHP KDV EHFRPH PRUH GLIĆFXOW WR QDYLJDWH than in the past. Ascomplexityhas increased, theamountof time doctors can spendwith patients has decreased. For patients, this means they have less time with an expert to help them understand what is happening to them, the results of various testing, and their treatment options. While numerous resources exist online to help patientsprepareforadoctor’svisit, asktheright questions and understand their treatment, WKH 1DWLRQDO 3DWLHQW 6DIHW\ )RXQGDWLRQ ĆQGV patients are typically stressed and not always able to ask the questions they should be asking. By asking the right questions, a Senior Care Advocate can help to ascertain information during a physician’s visit and are invaluable in times of crisis. A Senior Care Advocate will speak on your behalf if youor your parent arehospitalizedand unable to ask questions or communicate. Not only can they ask the right questions, they are always assessing the situation for needs. For example, they may look to see if the patient’s needs are being met by the hospital staff alone, or if they need extra support with bathing or eating. They can determine if the patient is confused or alert and if their condition is improving or declining.