It is all too common for senior citizens to ignore the advice of their doctor and do what they think is best instead. In fact, people of all age ranges do this. No one should take these liberties, but seniors are particularly not in the position to rewrite their doctor’s orders. Seniors are more susceptible to illness than the rest of the population, so following the instructions that their physician creates for them can mean the difference between life and death.

Creating medication directions are one of a physician’s primary duties. Most seniors are on some kind of prescription medication, and the instructions for taking these medications come directly from their physician’s medical opinion. It is unwise to presume you know better than your doctor. Do not veer away from your doctor’s instructions unless they encourage some range of experimentation. Doctors carefully create medication instructions for seniors in the best interest of their health, and seniors will be at their optimal health if they follow these instructions.

Doctors will give seniors a range of health advice about things other than medications, such as exercise, health safety and daily routines. It is equally important that seniors heed this advice as it is for them to follow medication instructions. A doctor’s advice on exercise, routines and lifestyle choice is their way of treating an entire person rather than just treating bodily symptoms. Following a doctor’s advice on these matters can profoundly affect a senior’s health for the better.

And lastly, simply being diligent about keeping doctor’s appointments is very important to a senior’s health. The doctor’s opinion should be a highly prioritized one to seniors. Skipping appointments or constantly rescheduling means that you will be delayed in receiving necessary health guidance. Keep your doctor’s appointments regular and in line with the recommended frequency of visits for best health results.