Tag: healthcare navigation

  • Book Recommendation

    Book Recommendation

    After my mom’s stroke, I came across How to Care for Aging Parents (3rd Edition) by Virginia Morris, and it quickly became one of my go-to resources. It’s packed with practical advice and warm, insightful reflections that helped me through some of the harder parts of caregiving.

    What stood out most was how the book offered both guidance for the moment and a thoughtful look at what may lie ahead. That forward glimpse brought me a sense of comfort and reassurance at a time when everything felt uncertain. As I read sections covering things I had already experienced, I found myself nodding in agreement—and wondering why I hadn’t picked it up sooner.

    If you’re looking for something that provides clarity, reassurance, or even a gentle reality check (in the best way possible!), I can’t recommend it enough.
    Here’s the link to check it out. I only share resources I truly believe in, and this one has had a meaningful impact on my caregiving journey.

    I’d love to hear if any of you have read it—or if there are other books that have helped you along the way!

  • Becoming Mom’s Medical Advocate

    Becoming Mom’s Medical Advocate

    Once I realized the gravity of my mom’s conditions, the next step was clear: become her advocate at every doctor’s visit. Here’s how that shift happened.

    When Mom and I first visited her cardiologist together, I came armed with a notepad and a thousand questions. I wanted to get the full picture—what exactly should we be on the lookout for? How would we know if her condition was getting worse? And seriously, what did all these medications actually do?

    That’s when I learned there’s no cure for aortic valve stenosis (when calcification messes with how the heart valve works). Her cardiologist told us that the only real solution is to keep an eye out for signs of heart valve failure so she can get a replacement in time. According to the doctor, regular physical activity and a healthy diet can help us catch red flags early, before things take a serious turn.

    In that moment, I realized one of my biggest roles would be showing up at appointments—pen in hand—ready to absorb the details for her and stay in the loop. It is no longer just about driving her there; it’s about translating medical jargon, listing out things the doctor wanted her to do in between appointments, asking follow-up questions, and making sure neither of us leaves feeling confused.

    Navigating doctor’s appointments was one thing—encouraging my mom to stay active was another beast entirely. Raise your hand if you’ve been there! Next, I’ll share how I learned to balance gentle nudges and respecting her preferences.

    Do you attend medical appointments with your loved ones? What strategies help you stay organized and ask the right questions?

  • Uncovering Hidden Health Issues

    Uncovering Hidden Health Issues

    About three years ago, after my mom stopped driving, I found a new GP who could see both of us – hoping to make scheduling simpler. Little did I know that first consultation would open up a whole can of medical worms.

    Before, I would drop Mom off at appointments while I waited in the car or the lobby. She’d come out insisting everything was “fine”. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t. The new GP’s office asked for our health histories, so I helped mom with hers. That’s when I uncovered a laundry list of conditions she barely knew about. Aortic stenosis, kidney issues, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Not exactly “fine”, right?

    Mom also mentioned that her cardiologist spoke so softly she could barely catch what he was saying. No wonder she wasn’t following up or asking questions. I realized I needed to be there with her at her appointments, to make sure we both understood what was going on. That’s how I became her medical advocate, helping her see the big picture and plan for the future. Let’s dive into that next!

    Have you ever uncovered surprising health information about a loved one? How did it change the way you approached caregiving?