Working Together With Your Healthcare Provider to Manage IBD

Why Partnership Matters

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a lifelong condition. The goal is not just to treat symptoms when they happen — but to:

• Prevent flares
• Reduce complications
• Maintain strength and independence
• Protect bone and muscle health
• Improve quality of life

The best outcomes happen when you and your healthcare provider work as a team.

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A New Way of Thinking About IBD Care

Instead of asking:

• “How am I feeling today?”
• “How do I stop this flare?”

Try asking:

• “How can we prevent future flares?”
• “What is my risk for complications?”
• “Is my treatment controlling inflammation — not just symptoms?”
• “How does my age affect my care plan?”

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Step 1: Current Symptom Check

Right now, my IBD feels like:

☐ In remission (no active symptoms)
☐ Mild symptoms
☐ Moderate symptoms
☐ Severe flare

Symptoms I am currently experiencing:

☐ Abdominal pain
☐ Diarrhea
☐ Blood in stool
☐ Urgency
☐ Fatigue
☐ Nausea
☐ Joint pain
☐ Skin changes
☐ Eye problems
☐ Weight loss
☐ No current symptoms

Other: ___________________________________

The symptom that concerns me most: ________________________________

__________________________________________________________

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Step 2: My Current Treatment Plan

IBD Medications: _______________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

Other Medications (including supplements): _____________________________

___________________________________________________________

Have I noticed side effects? ________________________________________

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Step 3: Short-Term Goals (Next 3 Months)

Medical Goals

☐ Reduce inflammation
☐ Improve bowel consistency
☐ Prevent flare
☐ Improve energy
☐ Stabilize weight
☐ Adjust medications safely

Other: ___________________________________

Personal Goals

☐ Increase activity level
☐ Travel comfortably
☐ Improve sleep
☐ Attend social events without worry
☐ Maintain independence

Other: ___________________________________

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Step 4: Long-Term Goals (Next 12 Months)

Medical Goals

☐ Maintain remission
☐ Avoid hospitalization
☐ Protect bone health
☐ Monitor vitamin levels
☐ Reduce steroid use

Other: ___________________________________

Personal Goals

☐ Maintain strength and muscle
☐ Stay active with family
☐ Maintain healthy weight
☐ Prevent complications

Other: ___________________________________

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Important Topics to Discuss With Your Provider (Age 65+)

• Bone density testing (especially if on steroids)
• Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, and iron levels
• Fall risk if experiencing weakness
• Infection risk from immune-suppressing medications
• Colon cancer screening schedule
• Vaccinations (flu, pneumonia, shingles)

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Questions to Bring to Your Appointment

• Is my inflammation fully controlled?
• Are my medications still appropriate for my age?
• Do I need nutritional supplements?
• What signs mean I should call you?
• How often should I have lab tests?

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Keeping Track Between Visits

• Monitor weight weekly, or as directed by your healthcare provider
• Track bowel habits if symptoms change
• Keep a medication list updated
• Write down new symptoms promptly
  • Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.  

• Stay hydrated and nourished

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Key Takeaway

Managing IBD after 65 is about more than symptom relief.
It’s about maintaining strength, independence, and quality of life.

When you actively participate in your care plan, outcomes improve.

You are an essential member of your healthcare team.

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Medical Disclaimer

This resource is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Management of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis varies based on disease severity, medications, and individual health conditions. Always consult your physician, gastroenterologist, or qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment plan. Do not disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice because of information provided in this guide. Call 911 if you are experiencing a medical emergency.

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Sources:

• https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2021-01/treat-to-target-form-FINAL%20%281%29.pdf
• https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/patientsandcaregivers/effective-partnering