Will this treatment address what matters most to me?
Doctors who specialized in working with older adults developed a “4M” framework. If you’re curious to know what the 4Ms stand for,
- medications: Will this medication affect me in my everyday life? Is this high-risk medication worth taking in the long run?
- Mentionation: Will this treatment cause sleep disruptions or even increase the risk of delirium?
- mobility: will I feel alert and steady as the day goes by?
- What matters most is: Will this treatment fully align with my specific goals and care preferences?
The 4Ms are meant to be considered when it comes to deciding on the best recommendations but also to guide older adults towards the right decision. They usually help organize the appropriate form of care.
Would you recommend this treatment to one of your family members?
Another important question you should ask is if your doctor would recommend the same treatment to another family member. This way, you will allow your doctor to contextualize a routine professional assessment on a more human and relatable level, which will give your doctor the opportunity to shift their perspective.
