We trust our healthcare providers to care for us and our loved ones. But all too often, appointments are hurried affairs, with the physician doing only a cursory exam before making a diagnosis and sending us on our way.
Some of us understand the importance of being our own advocates and are willing to speak up when we feel our doctor is brushing aside our concerns. However, not everyone is able to do that, leading to negative outcomes.
The aging process
Mae West was known for her quick wit and had many sharp one-liners attributed to her. She once said about aging, “Getting old isn’t for the faint of heart.” It’s true that the aging process brings with it many challenges, many of which overlap. That may be one reason why the elderly are often misdiagnosed, such as:
- Fatigues, memory lapses, aches and changes in behavior are often dismissed as part of the normal aging process. But those symptoms can also point to hypothyroidism, urinary tract infection, depression or a vitamin deficiency.
- Changes in mobility or balance might be attributed to arthritis but could also indicate an infection or a neurological issue like Parkinson’s disease.
In addition, communication barriers can also contribute to a misdiagnosis. Stroke victims or people with dysphagia may have trouble forming words and staying quiet due to embarrassment. Older adults may also want to avoid being seen as a burden, therefore they underreport their symptoms. There are also generational or cultural factors that discourage disagreeing with a medical professional.
Unfortunately, a misdiagnosis for an elderly person can have severe consequences for their health. Their actual medical condition could worsen, delaying recovery or making it impossible.
Could a misdiagnosis in an elderly loved one be cause for a medical malpractice lawsuit? Possibly. It’s crucial that you discuss your situation with someone who can review the circumstances and discuss your options.