Health
Dispel Those Myths of Aging
One key to living long and well? Dispelling the myths of aging, says Dr. John Rowe of the American Geriatrics Society's Foundation for Health in Aging.
Older adults, Rowe says, "are more likely to age well, to be free of disabilities, and more importantly, to perceive their own health status in a positive way." But first, he says, they must "unlearn the myths of aging and learn how to live long -- and well."
Caregivers are a special focus of the foundation. A spokesman stresses that good medical care does not happen by accident. Caregivers to find a competent, well-trained doctor who knows the health problems and special health care needs of an older loved one. They also want a doctor who listens carefully and can explain things clearly. When possible, caregivers should accompany older patients to a doctor's office, ask questions and take notes.
In addition, they should determine if a particular doctor "accepts assignment," which means that he or she accepts Medicare's pre-determined fees as full payment for services. If not, and if the doctor charges a higher fee, the difference may have to be paid out of pocket.
It is important to remember that not all older adults need to see a geriatrician. People 65 and older have varying degrees of disability and illness, and some have no health problems at all. A geriatrician should be consulted when an older person's condition causes considerable impairment and frailty.
Older adults, Rowe says, "are more likely to age well, to be free of disabilities, and more importantly, to perceive their own health status in a positive way." But first, he says, they must "unlearn the myths of aging and learn how to live long -- and well."
Caregivers are a special focus of the foundation. A spokesman stresses that good medical care does not happen by accident. Caregivers to find a competent, well-trained doctor who knows the health problems and special health care needs of an older loved one. They also want a doctor who listens carefully and can explain things clearly. When possible, caregivers should accompany older patients to a doctor's office, ask questions and take notes.
In addition, they should determine if a particular doctor "accepts assignment," which means that he or she accepts Medicare's pre-determined fees as full payment for services. If not, and if the doctor charges a higher fee, the difference may have to be paid out of pocket.
It is important to remember that not all older adults need to see a geriatrician. People 65 and older have varying degrees of disability and illness, and some have no health problems at all. A geriatrician should be consulted when an older person's condition causes considerable impairment and frailty.
