Telehealth for Seniors: Tips on Virtual Healthcare
Telehealth, or telemedicine, is a remote healthcare service provided by doctors and specialists. You can talk with your physician over the phone or via video chat to discuss your symptoms or receive ongoing evaluations. Learning how to navigate remote healthcare can help you make the most of your sessions.
Essential Technologies and Tools for Virtual Appointments
There’s various video technology that’s beneficial for seniors, including:
- Zoom
- Google Meet
- Microsoft Teams
- Skype
Your doctor will likely recommend which platform you should use to connect with them. You’ll need a reliable internet connection for telehealth appointments to avoid video and audio disruptions during your meeting. Ask your physician how they secure electronic health records and if they offer patient portals where you can access them.
Multi-factor authentication may be necessary to secure your connection. That typically includes a confirmation email, call or text message to verify your identity.
Common Telehealth Services for Seniors
Telemedicine is an effective option as it allows you to attend primary care appointments and consultations from the comfort of your home. You can schedule routine checkups, get your prescriptions refilled or plan follow-up visits after a procedure or hospitalization. Telehealth is especially helpful if you have mobility or transportation issues.
Remote monitoring services are also available via telemedicine. Using wearable devices to take your vitals, you can send information such as your blood pressure, blood sugar, oxygen levels and heart rate to your physician virtually. That service is crucial if you have a chronic disease like diabetes, heart disease or hypertension.
Other telehealth services include:
- Counseling
- Physical therapy
- Caregiver support
- Urgent care
Preparing for Your First Telehealth Appointment
Set up your technology: Make sure you have an established internet connection with enough broadband to support clear audio and video. Contact your provider to inquire if your current service is suitable for telehealth. Select a device that suits your needs, whether it’s a desktop computer tablet or smartphone.
Practice using the platform: Download the appropriate app from the Apple Store if you use an iPhone or iPad or Google Play if you own an Android device. You may need to go to a website and log in if your provider doesn’t use an app for virtual sessions. Practice accessing the platform and starting a video or audio conference ahead of time so you can troubleshoot any issues. Doing so can support efficiency during your appointment.
Gather health information: Compile a list of your symptoms, medication and questions so you have it ready if your physician requires it. Having your medical records on hand also reduces your chance of forgetting important details your doctor may need for a diagnosis.
Find the right setting: A quiet, well-lit space is the ideal setting for a telehealth appointment. Eliminating auditory and visual distractions allows for a productive meeting so your physician can provide a personalized care plan. Avoid backlighting as it makes it difficult to see your face clearly on camera. Turn off your TV and radio and close windows to eliminate background noise.
Involving Family and Caregivers in Telehealth Visits
Ask a family member, friend or caregiver to help you prepare for a telemedicine appointment if you’re unsure how to get started. Involving your loved ones can also support positive health outcomes and strengthen communication between you, your family and your doctors. Your caregivers may also provide additional insight into your symptoms and treatment, which is crucial for optimized care. Work with your loved ones to practice setting up and connecting to a telehealth appointment if you’re unsure how to get started.
Staying Connected to Comprehensive Healthcare
Ohioans Home Health & Hospice offers comprehensive in-home skilled nursing services. You’ll receive customized care and treatments in the comfort of your home, so you don’t have to worry about coordinating schedules and transportation. Contact us to learn about our services and schedule a consultation.
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