YOU are the expert on what matters for your health. Learn how to improve your health by talking with your doctor about the 4Ms – what Matters, Medication, Mentation and Mobility – a set of essential aspects of your care. 

Have you noticed your vision changing as you age? Do you need brighter light to do close-up work? Are you having difficulty reading or are you struggling with blurry vision? Loss of eyesight is a common concern for older adults. And there is no greater concern than the all-too-common risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). 

Are you struggling with persistent joint pain and worried that it might be something more serious? You’re not alone. Joint pain can be a sign of rheumatoid arthritis, a common condition that affects 1.5 million Americans.

If you haven’t been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, chances are you probably know someone who has. That’s because older adults are at increased risk of diseases that impact their ability to regulate their blood sugar as they age. For some, it’s a matter of genetics. For others, it’s triggered by lifestyle and diet choices. But those who are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, also known as adult-onset diabetes, can continue to live active, healthy lives if they make the right changes.

You’re probably aware that high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can be dangerous, increasing your risk for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, eye problems, and heart failure. But what exactly causes high blood pressure in older adults? And why does it increase with age?

A basic plan can help you make the most of your appointment whether you are starting with a new doctor or continuing with the doctor you’ve seen for years. The following tips will make it easier for you and your doctor to cover everything you need to talk about.