How to talk to your doctor about aging-related issues (and get better answers)

Topic: Medications & Doctor Visits Reading time: 2 min

Doctor visits can feel rushed. The trick is to show up with a small, clear agenda and the right details. You’re not being “difficult”—you’re being prepared.

Before the visit: write 3 things

Your top 1–2 concerns (the ones affecting daily life).
When it started and what makes it better/worse.
Your goal: “I want to sleep better,” “I want to walk without pain,” etc.

Use plain, specific language

Instead of “I feel weird,” try “I get dizzy when I stand up after sitting.”
Instead of “My memory is bad,” try “I’m missing appointments and repeating questions.”

Bring your real medication list

Include prescriptions, over-the-counter meds, vitamins, and supplements. Side effects and interactions are common causes of new symptoms.

Magic question: “Could this be caused or worsened by any of my medications?”

Make sure you leave with a plan

What’s the likely cause?
What should I do first?
What are the next steps if that doesn’t help?
When should I follow up?

If you feel dismissed

Try: “I understand it may be common, but it’s affecting my life. What options do we have?” If needed, ask for a second opinion or a referral (physical therapy, sleep specialist, dietitian, etc.).

Use our printable Doctor Visit Checklist to make this easy.

Ask your clinician (starter questions)

“What’s the most likely explanation in my case?”
“What serious causes are we ruling out?”
“Could any medications or supplements contribute?”
“What’s the simplest next step?”
“What should make me call you sooner or seek urgent care?”

If you want to prepare for a visit, try the Doctor Visit Checklist. For general support, browse Topics.