As an older adult, managing your health and wellness can become overwhelming. Whether you're faced with managing chronic illnesses or simply want to keep on top of routine wellness, gathering support from friends and family can make a huge difference.

Many older individuals find that including caregivers, friends, and family in their care and treatment plans can help support their wellness efforts and reduce stress. We’ve compiled three benefits you can experience when you help empower your caregiver.

Support When Making Health Decisions

Making medical decisions can be tough, especially for individuals with certain conditions. From treatment decisions to medication management, you don't need to make difficult decisions on your own! Engagement from friends, family, and caregivers can help support you, serving as advocates for your health wishes. Empowering others as part of your decision-making process can help bring your ties closer.

Better Health Outcomes with Caregiver Support

Did you know involving caregivers in your care and treatment plan can also help improve your health outcomes? Research studies have found that family engagement in care planning can improve mental health and overall health outcomes by providing motivation. For individuals with chronic conditions that require lots of oversight, such as Type 2 Diabetes, involving caregivers can help provide reminders and support needed to get through the most difficult of days.

Many older adults may assume that including friends, family, and other caregivers is a bother. In most cases, family and friends feel empowered to help support you, and they don’t view it as a burden. Research published by the American Psychiatric Association supports this idea, as conclusions found family involvement may help improve symptoms, enhance chronic disease management, and reduce negative mental health outcomes for patients.

How to Involve Your Caregivers, Friends, and Family in Your Care

You can make several small changes to help empower caregivers and improve your health outcomes. For example, when bringing a caregiver to a medical appointment, engage them in the conversation with your healthcare provider. Caregivers may want to ask questions, provide feedback, and provide helpful insight when creating your care routine.

Due to HIPAA laws, your provider must note that your caregiver or chosen health advocates will be attending doctor visits. This ensures that healthcare professionals can discuss your care and treatment freely with your caregiver, empowering them to help you make decisions about your health.

Become An IntuneHealth Patient Today

IntuneHealth is a new approach to healthcare for adults on a Medicare Advantage plan. We specialize in caring for adults 65+ and offer proactive, preventive primary care to keep you healthy — including walk-in visits and same-day appointments for patients — so you can spend more time living your best life. 

We also offer events and programs to keep our patients healthy, active and connected, from yoga to cooking classes. Make sure to book your one-on-one tour of your local center, or call us today at 1 (844) 646-8863!­