Telemedicine has quickly become a convenient and trusted way for people, including seniors, to consult with their doctors from the comfort of their own homes, resulting in fewer trips to the clinic and more flexible appointments, especially for minor health issues or follow-ups.
However, you may initially feel uncomfortable using telehealth if you have never had a video call with your doctor or are unsure about how the technology works. Still, the process is more straightforward than you think; you don’t need to be a tech expert to take full advantage of it.
We will guide you through this step-by-step guide on setting up telehealth, help you feel comfortable during your virtual visit, outline what to expect afterward, and provide tips on how to avoid common mistakes.
What Is Telemedicine and How Does It Work?
Telemedicine, also known as telehealth, allows you to consult with your doctor remotely, eliminating the need to visit the clinic. It uses video calls, phone calls, or a secure health app.
All patients can now use telehealth, but seniors are among the fastest-growing users, especially since Medicare, most insurance plans, and doctors support it as a regular part of care.
Its benefits include:
- Follow-up visits and prescription refills.
- Managing chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Mental health check-ins or therapy.
- General wellness questions and more.
How Does Temehealth Work?
- You first need to schedule an appointment with your provider online or by phone, just as you would normally.
- Then join the video call from your device, or answer the phone for an audio consultation at the scheduled appointment time.
- Your doctor will ask questions, examine symptoms, adjust medications, and even send prescriptions electronically.
You will need an iPhone or Android smartphone, a tablet, or a computer with a webcam and an internet connection.
Some providers also utilize secure platforms, such as MyChart, Zoom for Healthcare, or custom clinic apps.
Security Tip: Most telehealth systems are encrypted and follow HIPAA privacy laws to protect your health information.
Setting Up Devices, Internet, and Accounts.
Setting up for a telemedicine appointment might sound technical, but it’s easier than you think with the correct device and a little preparation.
What You Will Need to Join a Telehealth Visit.
Ensure you have the following:
- A smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone.
- A stable internet connection.
- Access to your healthcare provider’s patient portal or telemedicine app, such as MyChart, Zoom for Healthcare, or a clinic-specific app.
Your doctor’s office can usually help over the phone if you don’t already have a portal set up.
Tip: Choose a device you typically use comfortably and that is easy to hold and navigate.
Testing Your Internet and Video.
Connect to Wi-Fi to check its quality, then open your video app, such as Zoom or Skype, and verify that your camera and microphone are working.
You can also try a practice video call with a friend or family member, if possible, and ensure your device is well-charged or plugged in.
Logging Into the Appointment.
Most doctors will email or text you a secure link, then ask you to log in through their patient portal and provide instructions for the app they use.
Many clinics now offer printed instructions or brief training sessions to their patients. Still, you can ask your provider for a step-by-step guide by phone when in doubt.
Consider also asking a family member or caregiver to help with the setup if you are unable to figure out or are still confused about how the process works.
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Preparing for a Successful Telemedicine Visit.
Now let’s walk through a few steps to help you feel confident and prepared to make your appointment more effective and get the best care you deserve.
Choose the Right Environment.
- Pick a quiet, private, and well-lit space where you can speak freely wintout any interruption.
- Sit in a comfortable position, ideally with a neutral background and good lighting on your face.
- Avoid sitting in front of a window, as backlighting can make it hard for your doctor to see you.
Also, ensure you have a notebook or jotter to record important details, such as a list of your current medications, brief notes on your symptoms or questions, and recent changes in your health, including alterations in appetite, sleep patterns, and pain levels.
It will also be helpful if you have your medications, health journal, or blood pressure readings within arm’s reach, as your doctor may ask to review them or discuss the results.
Log In Early and Test the Tech.
Aim to log in 5–10 minutes before your appointment to ensure everything works correctly and address any issues promptly.
You can, for example, ask a trusted caregiver to join you on the call if you have concerns about your hearing, memory, or communication.
Your caregiver will help you to clarify instructions, speak on your behalf if needed, and ensure you understand follow-up steps.
Ensuring Comfort and Privacy During Your Call.
Feeling comfortable and secure during your telemedicine visit is as important as the medical advice itself. You are more likely to receive the care you need without stress or worry.
Create a Private Space for Your Call.
Remember, it’s still a medical appointment that requires privacy, even though you are not at the clinic.
- Choose a room where you can speak openly without being overheard or interrupted, and close doors and windows to minimize noise.
- Tell others in your home that you are on a medical call so they won’t disturb you.
- Wear headphones if needed to interact with your doctor effectively.
Related article: Top Wearable Devices for Monitoring Seniors’ Health.
Protecting Your Personal Health Information.
Most healthcare providers use HIPAA-compliant platforms to meet strict rules to protect your data, so use these few extra tips to protect your privacy.
- Only join telehealth visits through official links provided by your doctor’s office.
- Use a home connection instead of public Wi-Fi.
- Don’t share your telemedicine login or meeting link with anyone else.
- Call your provider directly to verify if you receive suspicious text messages asking for your medical info or payment outside of your doctor’s portal.
- Ask trained doctors and clinic staff if the video system is secure, why they comment yiru data, or any other questions.
Common Telemedicine Issues and How to Solve Them.
Technical hiccups can sometimes happen during telemedicine visits, even with the best preparation.
Still, these common problems you may face during a virtual healthcare appointment can be addressed.
Weak or Unstable Internet Connection.
- Move closer to your Wi-Fi router.
- Close any other apps or browser tabs using the internet.
- Ask others in your home to pause Netflix or YouTube streaming during your call.
- Consider switching to a phone-based visit, which your doctor may offer as a backup option in case of video issues.
Can’t Hear or Be Heard.
You can also address the common audio issues, such as a muted microphone or low volume:
- Check that your microphone isn’t muted (look for a red mic icon).
- Turn up your device’s volume.
- Use headphones for more precise sound if you wear hearing aids.
- Restart the video app if problems continue.
Camera Not Working.
A camera setting or app permission can prevent your doctor from being able to see you.
- Ensure your camera is not blocked or obstructed.
- Allow camera access in your app settings.
- Restart the app or device.
- Request a phone call backup option if these tips fail.
Trouble Logging In to the Appointment.
Sometimes, patient portals or video apps fail to open correctly or display error messages. Address these issues by:
- Always use the exact link sent by your doctor.
- Check your email or text messages for instructions.
- Restart your device and try again.
- Please call the clinic to guide you through the process or to reschedule your appointment if needed.
Feeling Nervous or Uncertain.
It’s completely normal to feel unsure the first time, but many other seniors also experience the same issue for the first time.
Your provider will typically wait patiently while you connect and help reschedule if the visit doesn’t work out, or switch to another type of call if necessary.
Tip: Write down what went wrong so a family member or tech support can help next time.
Involving a Family Member or Caregiver.
Involving a trusted family member or caregiver in telemedicine visits can significantly help you as a senior, especially during the initial appointments.
They can provide technical support, help to remember medical instructions, or help make one feel more comfortable.
The following tips help to involve them effectively, while still respecting your independence and privacy.
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When to Ask for Help?
You may want to invite a caregiver to join your telehealth appointment if you are unfamiliar with video calls, apps, or have hearing or memory challenges.
Someone nearby can also help describe your symptoms, select an extra pair of ears, take notes, remember instructions, and more.
How a Caregiver Can Help?
Your caregiver can help in many ways, including:
- Log in, adjust volume, and test the camera before the doctor joins or set up the call.
- Explain your medical history or medications if needed.
- Write down any instructions, next steps, or prescriptions.
- Clarify anything you forgot to ask or don’t understand.
- Help with scheduling future visits, updating health portals, or picking up medications.
Tip: Discuss with your caregiver the type of help you need and where you would prefer to speak on your behalf.
Protecting Your Privacy.
You have the right to choose the person in the room during the call and ask your caregiver to step out if you want to discuss something privately.
Trained healthcare providers respect your choices and may check in by saying, “Is it okay if we continue the call with someone else present?”
What Is Next After a Visit?
Your telemedicine visit doesn’t end with the call, as your physician will provide you with prescriptions to pick up, notes to review, or follow-up steps to complete.
Review What Was Discussed.
Right after your call, take a moment to write down the doctor’s advice or recommendations and note any changes to your medications or treatment.
You will also need to record any follow-up actions, such as scheduling a lab test, calling the pharmacy, or reviewing what you and your caregiver heard to ensure you didn’t miss anything if he was on the call.
Prescriptions or Complete Tasks.
- Contact your pharmacy or check your patient portal to see if your prescription is ready for pickup.
- Check if your pharmacy offers home delivery, especially for seniors.
- Schedule tests, appointments, or vaccinations, and complete other instructions.
Use the Patient Portal for Follow-Up Questions.
Most clinics now offer secure messaging through their online portals:
- Log in and send a message to your doctor to ask something unclear.
- Request test results, referrals, or next steps.
- Ask for a printed visit summary if needed.
You can also book your next virtual visit online or contact the office by phone if your provider asked you to check in again in a few weeks or months.
Setting up reminders in your calendar or phone helps you remember future appointments, or ask a caregiver to assist with scheduling if you prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Telemedicine for Seniors.
What if I don’t have a smartphone or computer?
Many healthcare providers offer telephone appointments for seniors who lack access to smart devices.
These visits still allow you to discuss your symptoms, medications, and get medical advice. You can also use your caregiver’s device for video visits if needed.
Is telemedicine secure?
Yes, telemedicine is secure when used through your doctor’s official system, and telemedicine is HIPAA-compliant and encrypted.
Avoid using unknown links or public Wi-Fi, and contact your clinic directly if something doesn’t seem right.
Will my insurance or Medicare cover telehealth visits?
Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, now cover telemedicine, particularly for follow-up care, chronic conditions, and mental health services. Check with your provider or insurer to confirm which services they cover and if there is a copay.
What if I am Unable to hear or understand the doctor clearly during the visit?
If you wear hearing aids, check if your device supports Bluetooth pairing and adjust the volume settings accordingly.
You can also have a family member or caregiver nearby to help clarify information or take notes if needed.
Can I use telemedicine for emergencies?
Telehealth only suits prescription refills, minor illnesses, chronic condition check-ins, mental health therapy, follow-up care, and similar health concerns.
Call the emergency number or go to the nearest emergency room immediately if you feel chest pain, trouble breathing, signs of a stroke, or other severe health issues.
Final Thoughts: Telemedicine Makes Senior Healthcare Easier and Safer.
Telemedicine enables seniors to stay connected to healthcare without having to leave home. You can use it to manage a chronic condition, schedule a routine check-up, or seek advice with confidence.
Ensure you have the correct device, a stable internet connection, and a quiet place to talk to make the most of your telehealth visits, even if you are not tech-savvy.
You can also ask your caregiver to accompany you during your virtual visit to ask and answer questions, take notes, and so on, if needed, to make healthcare easier, safer, and more senior-friendly.