What’s changing?
In pediatric care, your parents are often present at every appointment. They talk to the doctor and take care of things for you. In adult care, you’re expected to handle things on your own. You have to make your own appointments, ask your own questions, and tell your doctor how you’re doing. This can take some getting used to at first. Also, once you turn 18, your parents will no longer automatically receive information about your health. You’re now the focus, and that requires more independence.
Why is preparation important?
Many young people aren’t quite ready for this change when they turn 18. They aren’t quite sure what to do or don’t yet feel confident enough to handle everything on their own. That’s why good preparation is so important. Fortunately, more and more hospitals are helping with this.
Some hospitals have special transition coaches or nurses who will guide you. They’ll help you get used to your new role in healthcare, one step at a time. You can also meet your new doctor in advance. And there’s time to talk about what’s important to you for the future: school, work, living on your own, or relationships.
What can you do on your own?
There’s a lot you can do on your own to prepare:
- Learn exactly what your condition entails.
- Ask which checks are still required.
- Write down the important things.
- Talk to someone you trust about your concerns.
- Make sure you know who to call if something happens.
This will help you become stronger and more independent in taking care of yourself.
Step by Step Toward Independence
The Ready Steady Go program is a helpful tool. This program helps young people ages 12 and older become increasingly independent in managing their care. You’ll work with questionnaires that you’ll discuss with your parents and healthcare provider.
The program consists of four steps:
- Ready (ages 12–14) – You’ll learn about your condition.
- Steady (ages 14–16) – You’ll practice asking questions and making plans on your own.
- Go (ages 16–18) – You’ll prepare for the transition.
- Hello (ages 18–25) – You’ve made a change and are learning to cope with new situations.
These steps will help you learn to take on more responsibility at your own pace.
Parents also play a role
For parents, this transition takes some getting used to as well. Suddenly, they’re no longer allowed to handle everything. Still, they remain important. It helps when parents support their child without taking over everything. Talking together about the transition is important.
Want to read more?
Would you like to learn more about the Ready Steady Go program? Then visit www.opeigenbenen.nu. Or talk to your doctor or ocularist about your transition to adult care.
