Around this time of the year we prepare for winter and make sure that all the necessary work is completed before going to Florida. We trim our trees, feed the rhubarb, prepare our vegetable gardens and put away all the outside lighting and a dozen other tasks.Inside we do the same.As and individual I feel like some kind of a medical creature when all the prep events are counted up. The dentist, yearly medical with the dozen blood tests, your eye specialist and the pharmacist to buy all those goodies that take care of your arthritis and other human failings.
Every year I do this and realize the consequences of not having that wonderful, golden medical plan. My Dr. believes that prevention is better than treatment so he makes every effort to keep me medically sound. In the same way I maintain my property our medical system maintains my body. I never gave this much thought as I have been fortunate to be able to look after my children and myself without a thought of the cost.
People who do not benefit from such a program must feel frustrated that they are unable to provide for their families and themselves without questioning the economic impact on their lives. This came to my attention when I recently observed my Dr. as adding a certain phrase ofter answering my questions. He usually finishes his little speech with the words, "age relevant" or "age appropriate". What he is saying that for my age I am okay. This kind of shocked me as I never think of myself as old.
Don't ask about your memory loss or other worrisome items because he smiles and says that I can expect that at my age. There you have it - I am ageing and the Dr. tells me I will need and depend more and more on the safety net of the medical system. It has not failed me so far so I guess I will be OK in the future FOR MY AGE.
Yes, my good man, you can call yourself lucky for all the prevention you can build in. The problem most people down here in the States is that basic care, both for our bodies and for our homes cost more than most people can afford. So, they delay, and life as we know it becomes more complex.
ReplyDeletep.s. So, you'll be talking about 80+ degree weather soon. Lucky you.
ReplyDeleteIsn't that the truth? We really don't notice ourselves aging (except for the odd ache or pain), and that our "kids" now are the age we think we are. We certainly are fortunate to be this healthy .
ReplyDelete"People who do not benefit from such a program must feel frustrated that they are unable to provide for their families and themselves without questioning the economic impact on their lives."
ReplyDelete...definitely. While I'm lucky enough to have had a great health insurance plan my entire life, many are less fortunate. :/