The Caregiver Curmudgeon Chronicles: Doctor’s Office Episode
According to the American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, there are two definitions for the word curmudgeon.
The first one being:
An ill-tempered person full of resentment and stubborn notions.
Or, my personal favorite:
A crusty irascible cantankerous old person full of stubborn ideas
Gee, I love the sound of that.
How about some more self-styled curmudgeon wisdom?
- If your loved one is to have a procedure (even in-office) make sure to ask about the ramifications. Will they be uncomfortable? Will this hinder their movement in any way? How long is it to take? And of course, what are we trying to learn from this procedure?
- Be kind to the office staff, even if it is really difficult thing to do. They can make your life a bit easier when dealing with the doctor’s office or much more difficult. Sometimes it is a very hard thing to do as they may not seem to want your kindness, but it is always noted. Never ever (no matter how much you want to do so) curse or yell.
- When you have your 20 minutes with the doctor, make like a girl/boy scout and be prepared. Have your questions ready and let them know up-front you will be asking some. Don’t feel foolish asking for clarifications ow what they are saying. They are the ones who are not serving you by not communicating well. Ask if you can record the session for your fellow family members so you are not playing a game of caregiver telephone.
Doctor, we at the caregiver curmudgeon army and we are ready, willing and able to help you as you provide care for our loved ones!
Share your thoughts in the comments below.