13 Senior Health Questions to Ask Your Doctor

You keep a mental log of your health questions, and save them for your doctor’s visits. But somehow, nearly every time, when the doctor says, “Do you have any questions?” you draw a blank. It’s not until you get back home that you remember what you forgot to ask. It happens to the best of us. Health is a complex and often overwhelming topic, but communicating questions and concerns to your doctor is essential to your well-being.

To help you make the most of your doctor’s undivided attention, and leave your appointments feeling empowered, here are 13 questions to print and take to your next visit.

Regular checkups:

Regular checkups ensure you are healthy, but they also offer you the opportunity to discuss any concerns. Here are a few questions you may want to ask:

• Are there any vaccines I should receive, such as vaccines for the flu, pneumonia or shingles?
  Vaccines help prevent viral infections, which can lead to serious complications.

• Do you recommend any vitamins or supplements?
  Most vitamins and minerals can be consumed through a well-rounded, healthy diet. But since every person’s lifestyle and diet is different, your doctor may recommend that you take extra vitamins.

• What is my blood pressure?
  It’s important for you to know your blood pressure, even if it is in the normal range.

• Is there anything you would like me to work on or focus on before our next visit?
  Your doctor may be concerned about your weight, your activity level or any number of issues. This opens the door to discussing any preventive measures you may be able to take.

Appointments when you are ill or concerned:

These types of appointments can be stressful because you’re looking for answers and just want to feel better. When people are stressed, they may forget to ask questions until it’s too late. Here are a few inquiries to use as a guideline for discussion:

• What do you think may be causing my problem?
  This question is different from “What is my diagnosis?” Some doctors may tell you what is wrong, but not what may have caused it. This helps you better understand your situation and prevent a relapse.

• What are these tests for?
  When your doctor orders tests, you should know why and what the tests will show. By understanding the tests, you can have a more productive conversation once results are in.

• Do I need any special preparation for the tests?
  For many tests, you simply need to show up. Other tests require preparation, such as fasting for several hours beforehand. Make sure you fully understand the rules so you don’t inadvertently do something that throws off the results.

• What is the next step after these tests?
  In some situations, the tests will lead to a diagnosis and treatment. In other cases, tests will lead to further tests. An answer to this question will help you prepare for what’s next.

• How does this medication, treatment or procedure work?
  If your doctor orders or prescribes a treatment, ask them to describe how it works and how it will affect your body. This way you know when you’re experiencing expected side effects versus a negative reaction.

• How long does this treatment last?
  Some illnesses, like infections, may be treated within days. Other concerns require long-term or continuous treatments.

• Are there any alternative treatment options?
  There may be other ways to treat your illness. Find out your options and discuss with your doctor the best treatment for your needs.

• Will this treatment be affected by or have an effect on medications I am already taking? If you see more than one doctor, it’s possible that they are not aware of other treatments you are undergoing. It’s important that all your doctors are in the loop so they don’t prescribe you something that will negatively react with another drug or treatment.

• What should I do if I feel worse?
  If you experience side effects from a treatment or your illness gets worse, you need to know what to do or where to go.

This list is by no means comprehensive, but it’s a great starting point for developing a good rapport with your doctor. The better you communicate with your doctor, the more comfortable you’ll both feel in the future.

Paying close attention to your health is one of the most important ways to ensure your retirement is enjoyable. Learn more about how today’s seniors are enjoying retirement with a copy of our free guide. Get your copy here: Aging in Place: A Popular Trend for a New Generation of Seniors.