If you were to hire someone to say, do your landscaping or put an addition on your house, you would most likely research their qualifications, conduct an interview or even check references to ensure you made the best and most informed decision. The same goes for finding the right person to care for your health. Finding a new primary care physician (PCP) is a significant decision that can significantly impact the quality of your life, especially if you are a senior.

As you age, personal goals and areas of concern often change. Therefore, you need to feel comfortable with your doctor and be able to openly communicate regarding aspects of your health and life. I discuss the importance of this relationship in the following video, along with specific ways to choose the right PCP and get the most out of your doctor’s appointments.

As you will see in the video, medical care for seniors often requires special expertise. Whether it’s treating chronic illnesses or managing long lists of medications, geriatricians have the experience and training to meet the specific needs of seniors. These physicians generally complete a fellowship, which is advanced training for one or more years and earn certification from the American Board of Physician Specialists.

Lastly, a PCP should not relegate all medical issues to aging. Instead, physicians should encourage seniors to lead comfortable and fulfilling lives – a message that resonates in the following video.