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Older people get sick from SPECIFIC HEALTH PROBLEMS, not old age alone
I clearly remember a visit with a patient who was about to turn 100 years old. She complained of pain in her right knee, and it wasn’t getting any better.
I inquired what she thought was causing the pain.
“How should I know? What do you expect at my age? I’m not getting any younger,” she responded.
“How’s your left knee?” I asked.
“Just fine. Why?” she replied, puzzled.
“I’m just curious why that knee doesn’t hurt too. Isn’t it the same age as your right knee?” I said with a smile.
She smiled back, catching my point. I recommended a mild pain reliever, warm soaks, and rest for the painful knee. By the following week, her right knee felt as good as her left.
I think about this conversation often. It helps keep me on the right track when helping my older patients.