How to Share Health Concerns With a Parent’s Doctor

It is often very helpful to send a note to the clinic in advance. Doctors are often on a tight schedule, and having your observations in writing allows them to review the concerns before they even step into the room. It also ensures you don’t have to speak about sensitive topics (like hygiene or memory) right in front of your parent/loved one if you feel it might embarrass them.

Here is a template you can adapt.

Email/Letter Template for the Primary Care Physician

Subject: Clinical Observations: [Parent’s Full Name] – Upcoming Appointment on [Date]

Dear Dr. [Doctor’s Last Name],

I am writing to share some specific observations regarding my [father/mother], [Parent’s Name], following a recent extended visit over the holidays. I will be attending the upcoming appointment on [Date], but I wanted to provide this context in advance to assist with your assessment.

During my visit, I noted the following changes in [his/her] baseline:

• Mobility: I observed some unsteadiness and “furniture walking.” [He/She] appears to be at an increased risk for falls.
• Cognition/Safety: There were instances of [e.g., leaving the stove on / forgetting routine medications / repeating questions frequently].
• Physical Findings: I noticed [e.g., unexplained bruising / significant weight loss / a decline in personal hygiene].
• Social/Mood: [He/She] seemed unusually [withdrawn / irritable / fatigued] during family gatherings.

Given these shifts, I am concerned about a decline in [his/her] functional reserve. During our visit, I would appreciate it if we could specifically address:

A review of [his/her] current medications (Polypharmacy review).

A formal gait and balance assessment.

Any necessary lab work to check renal and nutritional status.

Thank you for your time and for the continued care of my [father/mother].

Sincerely,

[Your Name] [Your Phone Number]

Pro-Tip: The “Wait-and-Watch” List

While you wait for the appointment, keep a small log on your phone. Note the time of day when you see these changes. For example, if confusion is worse in the evening, it could be “Sundowning,” which is a specific clinical sign doctors look for.

If you or an aging loved one is considering Home Care in Vacaville, CA, please contact the caring staff at Aging Assistant today at (916) 897-4752

James Ozsvath

Aging Assistant is a locally owned and operated in-home senior care provider, we are dedicated to helping our clients to remain in the home they love for as long as they can. Our caregiving staff are all warm and compassionate professionals, experienced in taking care of seniors in various stages of health. We handle a wide range of services, such as help with shopping, housekeeping, attending doctor’s appointments, and preparing meals. We also provide our clients with limited mobility or more intensive conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia with the higher level of personal care that they require. Call our team now if you need help with a loved one's care.

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