Why are my elderly parents so anxious about going to the doctor?

Most people experience anxiety when they go to the doctor. The exam room can be quite intimidating, especially for senior patients. Conversations tend to be rushed and often little time is set aside for the patient to speak freely. Add to that the fact that many of our elders grew up in an era where complaining to doctors was looked upon as a weakness or where there was little money available for medical treatment. They were taught to just keep on going and it will eventually go away. Ailments that are common to seniors, such as depression, are often overlooked because the majority of the office visit is spent noting vital signs and reviewing the results of medical tests. There are many additional medical problems that seniors may be experiencing that go unreported because they are simply afraid to bring them up in the doctor's office. Incontinence issues are often overlooked because elders are embarrassed to speak of them.

There are many medical problems that seniors may be experiencing as they age. They are simply anxious about going to the doctor's office because of the fear of the unknown, such as the confirmation of an incurable disease, terminal illness, or feeling of embarrassment due to specific medical conditions, such as issues with incontinence, etc. The issues about possible medical complications from necessary procedures as well as the care and changes of lifestyle can be overwhelming to your elderly parents.