Talking With Your Doctor: A Guide for Older Adults

Talking With Your Doctor: A Guide for Older Adults provides practical guidance for communicating with health care providers and participating in health care decisions. Published by the National Institute on Aging, it explains how to choose a doctor, prepare for appointments, describe symptoms, and ask questions about tests, medicines, and treatments. The booklet also addresses conversations with specialists and hospital staff, participation in clinical trials, and discussing sensitive health concerns. It describes ways family members and caregivers can assist with communication while supporting the older adult’s involvement. Worksheets help readers organize their medical information, questions, and appointment notes.