There comes a time in every life when the working years come to an end, and we can finally take a breath and relax. Nicknamed “The Golden Years” by many, it’s supposed to be a time for only our best experiences. While it is good to enter this stage of life with nothing but optimism and opportunity, it isn’t immune to its own set of trials that could at first seem intimidating.

These challenges don’t have to be met with fear, but open arms and optimism. It’s often easy to accept these new challenges yourself, but more difficult for your loved ones. Senior Solutions Management Group would like to provide you a way to talk to your siblings, children, and grandchildren in ways to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding your health and your future. 

The important thing to note is that there is no definitive guide, no simple handbook that tells you how to share news about your health to your family. Each situation is different and explaining diseases and health conditions to your family, especially children, can be hard. That is why Senior Solutions is here to help!

Stay Informed with Regular Checkups

One of the most important things to remember, in any condition of health, is to have regular checkups. The two people who know your state of health best are you and your trusted physician. It’s not unusual for your family to express concern when you visit the doctor, even for a routine visit. Don’t forget to ask your doctor any important questions or concerns you may have. Upon the end of your visit, take the time to talk with your family about how it went. Be honest and be earnest.

If everything is fine, make sure they know everything is fine. If the doctor raised health concerns, those are now your concerns and the concerns of your loved ones. However, you are your own person, and while your family may express their own feelings on how you should handle your specific situation; once again, those who know best are you and your physician.

An Important Discussion 

Should a routine visit or appointment result in the detection of something more serious, it will likely fall on you to explain the disease or condition to your family and friends. The first person who has to accept a diagnosis is you; ask your doctor to explain your disease in easy to understand details. Ask these questions:

• What is the condition?
• What are my treatment options?
• How will this impact my current lifestyle?
• How can I manage this condition?

When explaining your disease or ailment to your family, these are all important things to speak on. Explaining diseases can be hard, and your family’s initial reaction may be one of deep concern. It’s human nature when a loved one is going through a difficult time; but if you can put on a brave face, they will find comfort in that. 

Laying Out Your Options

While explaining diseases and health conditions can be a daunting challenge, it isn’t one without hope. Many forms of arthritis can be managed with low impact exercise, and healthy eating habits; various forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, are becoming more manageable to prolong the earlier stages.

If you have been recently diagnosed with a health condition, you should also know your options. Senior Solutions communities provide you with a place that truly feels like home, with the added benefit of compassionate caregivers. Our communities provide individualized care and give you access to meaningful amenities with the goal of keeping you safe, active, and healthy. If you’re interested in one of our communities throughout Georgia, Tennessee, and South Carolina, feel free to contact one of our experts and learn more!