"Respect and humor help so much"

My 93 year old mother went to her primary care doctor regarding pain in her shoulder that was radiating to her wrist and making it difficult to dress, manage daily activities. She was very anxious and wanted tests done to guide treatment. He listened patiently, empathized with her restricted mobility and pain and made a joke asking if she punched someone because they misbehaved which made her laugh, alleviated her anxiety and feel stronger. So important when you are elderly, your health is declining and you are feeling vulnerable and out of control.