A Story to
Remember
by Robert S. Stall, MD
I once saw a patient who was about to turn 100 years
old. She had pain in her right knee. I asked what she thought was wrong.
What do
you expect at my age?
she said, shrugging her shoulders.
How is
your left knee?
I asked.
Just
fine, thank you
she answered.
Then why
doesn't your left knee hurt? Isn't it the same age as your right knee?
I stated with a
smile.
She smiled too and understood what I meant.
Think about it.
Often. I
do. It keeps me on the right track when
I try to help my older patients.
Don't sell older people short. There is always something that can be done to
help an older person lead a happier, more functional life, even in extreme old
age.