The elderly population is growing at an unprecedented rate, and in the United States, people aged 65 are above consist nearly 20% of the population by 2030.
The increase in life expectancy is due to medical care and public health advances. And as the elderly population grows, it creates a demand for healthcare services that cater to their unique needs.
Geriatricians are medical doctors who specialise in the care of older adults. They provide comprehensive, individualised care to help patients maintain their health and independence.
Geriatricians are experts in the ageing process who understand how age-related changes affect a person’s health and well-being. They also know how to identify and treat age-related diseases and conditions.
This article will highlight the role of a geriatrician in treating the elderly.
1. Comprehensive Care
Geriatricians provide comprehensive care to their patients and focus on their overall health and well-being, not just their physical health.
These professionals also take into account the unique needs of older adults. When providing care, they consider a person’s social, psychological, and spiritual needs.
However, aspiring professionals in the field can narrow their focus to a particular area of interest. For example, some geriatricians may choose to specialize in dementia care or palliative care.
Several online programs allow health care professionals to earn a diploma or advanced degree specializing in geriatrics. For instance, the AGPCNP online degree program equips nurses to specialize in caring for older adults. The program also provides nurses with the skills and knowledge to provide primary care to older adults. So if you are a health care professional who wants to focus on the care of older adults, consider pursuing a certificate in geriatrics.
2. Individualized Care
Geriatricians provide individualized care to their patients and tailor their care to each person’s unique needs and preferences.
They consider a person’s age, health history, lifestyle, and family situation when providing care. They also consider a person’s cultural and spiritual beliefs.
Geriatricians use this information to develop a care plan that meets their patient’s individual needs. This type of care is essential because it allows older adults to age in place.
However, the main goal of individualised care is to prevent or delay the onset of age-related diseases and conditions. This type of care can also improve a person’s quality of life.
3. Disease Prevention
Geriatricians play an essential role in disease prevention. They work to prevent age-related diseases and conditions through health promotion and screenings.
They also provide their patients with information about healthy aging, including advice on diet, exercise, and fall prevention.
Geriatricians may also recommend vaccinations to their patients because older adults are at a higher risk for certain diseases, such as influenza and pneumonia.
4. Diagnosis and Treatment
Geriatricians are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of age-related diseases and conditions. They use their knowledge of the aging process to develop accurate diagnoses.
They also use their experience to choose the best treatment options for their patients. They may recommend lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery.
5. Coordinated Care
Geriatricians coordinate care for their patients. It means that they work with other health care professionals to provide the best possible care for their patients.
They collaborate with primary care physicians, specialists, nurses, and therapists. They also work with social workers and home health care workers.
This coordinated effort ensures that older adults receive the comprehensive care they need. It also helps to prevent duplication of services and gaps in care.
6. Patient Education
Geriatricians play an essential role in patient education. They provide their patients with information about their health and well-being.
They also teach their patients how to manage their chronic conditions. This includes advice on diet, exercise, and medication management.
Geriatricians also provide their patients with information about advanced care planning. This includes discussions about end-of-life care and living wills.
7. Emotional Support
Geriatricians provide emotional support to their patients and their families. They understand the stress and anxiety that comes with age-related diseases and conditions.
They also know how to deal with the grieving process. They can provide patients with comfort and hope during difficult times.
However, geriatricians do more than provide emotional support. They also offer practical advice and assistance.
This includes help with financial planning, decision-making, and caregiving. Geriatricians can also connect their patients with community resources.
8. Research
Geriatricians play an essential role in research. They use their knowledge of the aging process to develop new treatments and therapies.
They also conduct research studies to improve our understanding of aging. This research helps to improve the quality of care for older adults.
Most importantly, geriatricians use their research to improve the lives of their patients.
9. Advocacy
Geriatricians are advocates for patients as they work to ensure that older adults receive the care and services they need.
They also work to improve public policies that affect older adults. This includes policies on Medicare, Social Security, and long-term care.
In addition, geriatricians work to increase funding for research on aging. This research is essential to developing new treatments and therapies.
10. Leadership
Geriatricians play an essential leadership role. They provide guidance and direction to other health care professionals.
They also work to improve the quality of care for older adults. They do this by serving on boards and committees and writing articles and books.
However, the most critical thing that geriatricians do is provide compassionate care to their patients. They understand the challenges that come with aging. And they are dedicated to helping their patients live full, productive lives.
Conclusion:
Geriatricians play a vital role in the health care of older adults. They are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of age-related diseases and conditions. They also provide their patients with information about healthy aging. In addition, geriatricians coordinate care for their patients. This helps to ensure that older adults receive the comprehensive care they need. Remember, if you are an older adult or know someone who is, be sure to see a geriatrician. They can help you live a healthy and happy life.
