Advocacy in the Doctor’s Office

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Have you ever left a doctor’s appointment feeling unheard or dismissed? Maybe your doctor waved off your concerns as “just part of aging” or directed their questions to your adult child instead of you. If so, you’ve likely experienced ageism in healthcare and need to add advocacy in your vocabulary.

Ageism – prejudice or discrimination based on age – is a widespread but often overlooked issue in medicine. It can lead to misdiagnoses, inadequate treatment, and a diminished sense of control over your own health. But here’s the good news: you have the power to advocate for yourself and demand the respect and care you deserve.

The Hidden Epidemic of Ageism in Healthcare

Research shows that ageism in healthcare leads to billions of dollars in unnecessary medical costs each year. Dismissing symptoms as a “normal” part of aging can mean real health issues go untreated, while excessive caution can result in unnecessary treatments and prescriptions.

Common signs of ageism in healthcare include:

• Dismissal of Symptoms: If your doctor tells you that fatigue, pain or forgetfulness are simply part of aging, they may be overlooking a treatable condition.
• Over-Treatment: Some providers assume older adults are frail and prescribe unnecessary medications or tests out of an abundance of caution.
• Patient Invisibility: If a doctor speaks only to your caregiver instead of addressing you directly, they are failing to respect your autonomy.
• Patronizing Language: Terms like “sweetie” or “dear” may seem harmless but can be condescending and undermine your sense of agency.
• Less Time Spent with Patients: Studies show that doctors spend less time with older patients and are less likely to refer them to specialists.

The Serious Health Impact of Ageism

Negative stereotypes about aging can have profound effects on health outcomes. Research has linked internalized ageism to:

• Shortened lifespans
• Increased risk of dementia
• Reduced physical functionality
• Higher rates of depression and PTSD
• Slower recovery from illness or injury

On the flip side, those who view aging positively tend to live longer, stay healthier, and even have a lower risk of cognitive decline. This means challenging ageist assumptions isn’t just about dignity – it’s about health and longevity.

How to Advocate for Yourself in the Doctor’s Office

If you encounter ageism in healthcare, you don’t have to accept it. Here are some steps you can take to ensure you receive the care you deserve:

• Be Prepared: Before your appointment, write down your symptoms, concerns and questions. This keeps the conversation focused and ensures nothing is overlooked.
• Bring an Advocate: A trusted friend or family member can help reinforce your concerns and ensure your voice is heard.
• Speak Up: If your doctor dismisses your concerns, don’t hesitate to say, “I’d like to explore this issue further.”
• Request Support Services: Social workers and patient advocates can help you navigate healthcare systems and push for better care.
• Address Ageist Behavior: If you experience patronizing language or are ignored, calmly state, “I appreciate being spoken to directly about my health.”
• Seek a Second Opinion: If you feel dismissed, consider switching doctors. Not all healthcare providers hold ageist views.
• Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with patient rights and anti-discrimination laws to ensure you’re being treated fairly.
• Stay Confident: Your health matters. You deserve respectful, thorough and attentive care.

Changing the System Starts with You

While healthcare institutions must work to eliminate ageism, individual patients play a crucial role in demanding better treatment. By speaking up, advocating for yourself, and rejecting harmful stereotypes about aging, you help pave the way for a more equitable healthcare system.

You have a lifetime of wisdom and experience – your voice deserves to be heard. Don’t let ageism stand between you and the quality care you deserve. The next time you step into a doctor’s office, remember: you are your own best advocate. And you are never too old to demand respect.

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