Preventive Health Conversations for Older Adults and People with Serious Illness

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Preventive care is not one-size-fits-all. For older adults and people living with serious illness, decisions may depend on health history, current treatments, daily routines, living arrangements, and personal goals.

A conversation with a physician or care team can help families understand what precautions may be appropriate and identify concerns before they become more difficult to manage. The following topics can help guide that discussion.

Immunization needs can vary based on age, medical conditions, previous vaccinations, medications, and other individual factors. Families may want to ask:

• Are there immunizations we should discuss based on current health needs?
• Could any medications or treatments affect timing or eligibility?
• Are there possible side effects or precautions we should understand?
• Where can we find a reliable record of previous immunizations?

A physician or care team can offer guidance based on the person’s complete medical history. The CDC also advises people to speak with a trusted healthcare provider about which immunizations may be appropriate for them and their families. Learn more from the CDC.

Everyday precautions can be especially important when someone has a greater risk of becoming seriously ill. Ask the care team what measures make sense at home, during appointments, and when spending time with visitors.

Topics may include hand hygiene, cleaner indoor air, avoiding close contact with people who are ill, and knowing what to do following a possible exposure. The right approach may change depending on the person’s health and current illness activity in the community.

Bring an updated list of all prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and supplements to appointments. Note how each is taken and whether anything has recently changed.

Consider asking:

• Are all current medications still needed?
• Could any medications interact with one another?
• Might any cause dizziness, confusion, fatigue, appetite changes, or balance problems?
• What should we do if a dose is missed or a new symptom appears?

Do not stop or change a medication without guidance from the prescribing clinician. Medication reviews can also support fall prevention because some medicines may contribute to sleepiness, dizziness, or balance difficulties. CDC fall-prevention guidance.

A fall, near-fall, new unsteadiness, or fear of falling is worth discussing—even when no injury occurred. Tell the care team about changes in walking, balance, vision, strength, footwear, or the ability to move around the home safely.

Families may also ask whether the person would benefit from a fall-risk assessment, mobility support, home-safety review, vision evaluation, or other professional guidance.

Hydration needs can be affected by medications, kidney or heart conditions, swallowing difficulties, nausea, fever, and changes in appetite. Rather than relying on a universal target, ask the care team how much fluid may be appropriate and whether any restrictions apply.

Mention signs such as unusually dark urine, dry mouth, dizziness, increasing confusion, or a noticeable decline in fluid intake.

Changes in appetite, weight, taste, chewing, swallowing, digestion, or the ability to prepare meals can affect overall well-being.

Ask whether there are particular nutrition goals or restrictions to follow. Let the care team know about unexpected weight changes, difficulty swallowing, coughing during meals, persistent nausea, or trouble obtaining or preparing food. guidance.

Daily routines can influence exposure to illness. Consider upcoming gatherings, travel, shared living environments, visitors, transportation, and time spent in medical or care settings.

The care team can help families think through precautions suited to the person’s individual risk and circumstances. General infection-prevention practices may include good hygiene, cleaner air, and taking additional care around someone who is sick. CDC respiratory-illness prevention guidance.

Review the calendar together and identify routine visits, specialist appointments, laboratory work, screenings, procedures, or follow-ups that may be due.

Before an appointment, write down the most important questions and note any changes since the last visit. Ask whether multiple appointments can be coordinated, whether telehealth is appropriate, and what records or medication lists should be brought along.

Families and caregivers often notice subtle changes first. Report new, worsening, or unusual symptoms, including changes in breathing, pain, sleep, energy, appetite, mobility, memory, mood, or daily functioning.

It may help to record:

• When the change began
• How often it occurs
• What makes it better or worse
• Whether it affects eating, sleeping, walking, or other daily activities
• Any recent changes in medications, routines, or exposures

Ask the care team which changes require a routine call, a same-day evaluation, or emergency care. For severe or rapidly worsening symptoms—or whenever you believe there may be an emergency—seek immediate medical help.

Keep a shared list of questions, medications, symptoms, and upcoming appointments. Bring the person’s priorities into the discussion and ask for explanations in plain language. Before leaving, confirm the next steps, who to contact with questions, and when follow-up is needed.

Preventive conversations do not have to address everything at once. Starting with the most important concern can help families and care teams build a plan that reflects the person’s health, circumstances, and goals.

Contact Solaris to learn more about home health, palliative care, and hospice services available in your area. Visit solarisfamily.com or call 888-376-5274.

This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.