DOCTORS' DIRECTORY

Geriatric medicine is the branch of medicine that specializes on senior health and the prevention and treatment of diseases and disorders related to old age. Geriatricians are certified in internal medicine and family medicine and are the ones in-charge for assisting geriatric patients.

Usually, a geriatric healthcare comes as a team, which includes a nurse, a social worker, a nutritionist, a physical therapist, a pharmacist and a psychiatrist who have undergone special training in the treatment of older adults.

When Do You Need to Start Seeing a Geriatrician?

As you enter the senior years, you may start noticing illnesses or disabilities that are common to your age group. While some older adults experience no health problems, many struggle with incontinence, frailty, memory problems, frequent falls and medical-related side effects.

Usually, a family doctor can serve as a primary healthcare provider, especially if your family physician has experience and training in handling older patients. However, you might need to consult a geriatrician if you have complicated health condition, such as the following:

• Significant impairment and/or age-related frailty, which is more common to older patients with multiple disabilities, diseases and/or mental problems.
• The health condition is causing family and friends more stress and strain.

If you think you or a family member already needs a professional aid from a geriatrician, talk to your primary healthcare provider now.