Asking Eric: Ill sister won't seek medical care

In “Asking Eric: Ill sister won't seek medical care,” Eric responds to a reader worried about her 71-year-old sister, who has had worsening medical problems for two years but has avoided doctors for at least 10 years. The sister refuses care because she fears receiving a fatal diagnosis and also struggles with extreme anxiety. Eric says therapy can be a helpful first step if she’s willing, and suggests discussing it together—potentially via secure video sessions—to reduce barriers. He also recommends framing change as lifestyle improvements that help regardless of whether conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or hypertension are present.