Geriatric Care

What is geriatric care?

Geriatric care, or geriatrics, is the branch of medicine concerned with the health and well-being of the elderly. Geriatric healthcare providers deal with diseases and conditions common with age, while also seeking to address patients’ mental, social, and emotional needs.

Although there’s no specific age at which geriatric care begins, most geriatric patients are 75 or older and have three or more medical problems. Often, the complications that arise from multiple treatments and medications require a healthcare provider with specialized training and qualifications.

What are some common health concerns for geriatric patients?

Specific conditions more common for the elderly include:

• Incontinence
• Falls
• Memory problems
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Dementia
• Degenerative diseases

As people age, their chances of developing chronic diseases and conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and arthritis increase. They often deal with managing medications and treatments for multiple chronic conditions.

Who needs geriatric care?

You might need a geriatric professional if you or a family member is dealing with the following issues:

• Frailty
• Significant impairment or disability
• Confusion
• Failing memory

Most importantly, when you’re finding it stressful to keep up with your own or your loved one’s multiple medications and doctors, it’s probably time to seek a geriatric physician.

How does a family physician approach geriatric care?

As a family physician, Dr. Espinoza has the additional training necessary to deal with the unique needs of the elderly. He takes the time to evaluate each situation while also considering the patient’s preferences.

In managing geriatric care, Dr. Espinoza considers a number of issues, including:

• Living situation
• Driving problems
• Mobility and exercise
• Mental condition
• Opportunities for social interaction
• Nutritional needs
• Oral health

He also evaluates the patient’s ability to perform daily personal tasks such as bathing and dressing. If necessary, Dr. Espinoza refers the patient to a physical therapist or to specialists who can address vision or hearing impairment.

Patient and caregiver education might include tips for preventing falls and for relieving common physical problems such as constipation or unintentional weight loss. Dr. Espinoza might also suggest safe exercises for improving strength and flexibility.

Trust RestoraMed Healthcare to provide quality geriatric care for you or your loved one. Call the office or book an appointment online today.