Insights from The Orlando Senior Help Desk: Empowering patients and their loved ones

When visiting a doctor or hospital bring along a notebook or tablet and take notes. It is important to ask question of your health care provider about the benefits and side effects of medications or procedures. I suggest that you, or a loved one, researches the same information online so that you feel well informed. There are times when a second opinion should be sought, especially preceding a surgery.

I recommend you bring along an advocate. Sometimes, it is hard to process so much new information. When a family member or friend comes to an appointment, that individual can help understand the medical situation. You may also want to consider hiring a care manager. Care management companies explore all issues pertaining to seniors- health, finances, housing, legal issues, etc.

While most seniors face major adjustments when transitioning to an elder-care community, Jewish seniors face additional challenges. Not only do they lose their homes, and many of their friends, but they also lose ties to their cultural heritage. This is where the Jewish Pavilion, a 501c3 non-profit, steps in. The Pavilion serves as a resource that provides room visits, festive holiday celebrations, and more to 450 Jewish residents in fifty facilities for seniors. The Jewish Pavilion promotes inclusion, and thousands of seniors of all faiths are welcomed into our programs. http://www.JewishPavilion.org.

The Orlando Senior Help Desk (407-678-9363) helps thousands of callers navigate their way through the daunting senior maze, alleviating caregiver stress while giving advice on all types of elder issues. http://www.OrlandoSeniorHelpDesk.org.