A few months ago, I wrote a post advising that seniors don’t need to bring someone with them to a doctor’s appointment.
I am dogged about keeping our independence as we age, but today, I am changing my mind…
Since writing that post, I spoke to one of my clients who recently visited her doctor. She could not remember what he said or recommended. She got flummoxed and walked out with a prescription without asking any questions.
So, then it hit me. Could I have been wrong? Was I making recommendations to my clients without really thinking through the problem? Perhaps I’m too stubborn and know that I want to be totally independent, as I get older.
Using myself as an example… I recently walked into a store with some things on my mind that had nothing to do with why I was there. I realized that I was standing, in the store, without a clue.
When asked by the salesperson if I needed help, I felt like saying, “boy, could I?!”
Friends, this wasn’t even a doctor’s office. It was Home Depot. My life was not on the line; we aren’t about to perform surgery. I was there to buy some tools and some roach spray. Clearly, not important decisions in the grand scheme of life.
So, I stand corrected – or rather, retracted a bit. If you think you get a little overwhelmed when you need to see a doctor or a lawyer – or any setting that makes you feel like you’ll leave without getting what you need – feel free to bring someone. This person can listen, take a few notes and help explain things to you that you may not fully comprehend because maybe you’re just thinking about something else. In fact, sometimes it can be less stressful when you have another person there.
So, am I completely reneging or backtracking? The answer is no. I recommend that you still stay independent, do things yourself, and go to Home Depot alone.
But, if you see a man walking around aimlessly, go ahead and offer some assistance – especially if he can’t find the bug spray he’s looking for.
Take my advice for what it is…It’s Just, AS I SEE IT!
