Gynecologists play a unique role in a woman’s life by guiding her through the various stages of womanhood. Now that your aging loved one has entered her golden years, there are a few essential things she should discuss with the gynecologist. Here are some of these crucial questions.
1. What Preventative Screenings Are Necessary?
Women often think their gynecologists are only concerned about their reproductive systems. However, a gynecologist understands the link between conditions like menopause and osteoporosis and can determine if your loved one needs additional screenings, such as a bone density test or a colonoscopy.
2. Is There Something I Can Do to Ease Menopause Symptoms?
Vaginal dryness, mood swings, and other symptoms of menopause can be easily treated today. Though some women choose hormone therapy, others utilize alternative methods to treat their symptoms. Your loved one should be honest with the gynecologist about any new or unusual symptoms so the physician can provide a treatment plan to bring her relief.
3. What Should I Know about Incontinence?
Urinary leakage is one symptom many older women manage in silence. However, there are many things that can be done to ease incontinence. A gynecologist can perform a health assessment to identify potential causes for your loved one’s incontinence and target treatment to fit her individual needs. Physical therapy, changing medications, and altering dietary habits are a few nonsurgical methods the gynecologist may prescribe in the early stages of incontinence.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional elderly home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
4. Am I at Risk for Sexually Transmitted Diseases?
For many older women, the freedom that comes from no longer worrying about pregnancy results in rejuvenated sexual relationships with their partners. Other women may even find themselves in new relationships in their golden years. However, there’s no age limit for being at risk for sexually transmitted diseases. If your loved one has recently begun a new romantic relationship, she should ask the gynecologist about getting screened for additional diseases during her annual checkup.
Whether you need respite from your caregiving duties or your aging loved one needs live-in care, Fort Lauderdale, FL, Assisting Hands Home Care can meet your family’s care needs. Our dedicated caregivers are available around the clock to provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, ensure seniors take their prescribed medications, and help with a variety of tasks in and outside the home.
5. Am I Doing Everything I Can to Prevent Breast Cancer?
It’s important to follow the recommended schedule for mammograms, and your loved one’s gynecologist will likely perform a breast exam at every visit. However, your loved one may want a refresher on how to perform a self-exam at home. Additional strategies for breast cancer prevention, such as maintaining a healthy weight and quitting smoking, can also give your loved one an edge when it comes to staying healthy. Maintaining good gynecological health is just one of many ways for senior women to enjoy a high quality of life. If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Fort Lauderdale families can rely on. All of our caregivers are bonded, licensed, and insured, there are no hidden fees, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts. To create a comprehensive in-home care plan for your loved one, call us today.
