If you have aging parents, it might be time to become their healthcare advocate. If your parents have been handling their own medical care, you might not think they need an advocate. That might not be the case though. As your parents age, they may find it difficult to advocate for their own healthcare. Unfortunately, that means they might not get the care they need. That's where you come into the picture. As an advocate, you speak up when they're no longer able to do that for themselves. If you're not sure what your duties as a healthcare advocate entail, read the list provided below.

Here are three ways you can best advocate for your aging parents. 

Keep Track of New Symptoms

Your parents' health will go through a lot of changes as they age. Some of those changes might be physical. Some of those changes will be cognitive in nature. But, your parents might not notice the changes they're going through. That's why they need you to advocate for them. As a healthcare advocate, you'll keep track of new symptoms. This includes both physical and cognitive changes. It also includes any emotional changes your parents go through. For instance, your parents may experience depression. Tracking new symptoms can help keep your parents' doctors up-to-date on any changes. 

Discuss Treatment Options

If your parents are aging, they may need treatment for certain medical conditions. If they have you as a healthcare advocate, you can help them understand the options that are available. You can also discuss these options in detail with their healthcare providers. If you're not sure those options are right for your parents, you can advocate for access to better options. That way, you know your parents receive the best medical care possible. 

Review Medication Lists

If your parents take medication for their health conditions, you'll need to review those lists from time to time. This is especially important when new medications are added to your parents' healthcare regimen. But, your parents might not know how to request a review of their medication lists. That's why your role as a healthcare advocate is so important. You can ensure that your parents' doctors review their list of medications on a regular basis. 

Don't take chances with the health of your aging parents. If you're not your parents' healthcare advocate, now's the time to make some changes. You can ensure that your parents receive the healthcare they need.

Reach out to a company like America's Healthcare Advocate to learn more.