Aging is a natural part of life. However, as we get older, our health needs change. This is where a geriatric doctor comes in. They are experts in elderly care and can provide specialized treatment.
In this blog, we will explore five important reasons to see a geriatric doctor. Additionally, we will talk about a primary care practice where you can go to receive geriatric primary care.
Understanding Geriatric Doctors
A geriatric doctor is a primary care doctor who offers specialized health care to older adults. They have special training to understand the unique needs of elderly patients.
Geriatric primary care doctors help manage chronic diseases, medications, and other age-related health issues. Geriatric doctors take a holistic approach to health care.
They look at all aspects of an older adult’s life, including physical, emotional, and social well-being. This comprehensive care ensures that all health issues are addressed effectively.
1. Expertise in Chronic Conditions
Comprehensive Management
Chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis are common in older adults. Geriatric doctors are good at managing these problems.
They not only treat the symptoms but also help improve patients’ quality of life through various therapies and treatments.
Coordinated Care
Managing chronic conditions often means seeing many different doctors. Geriatric primary care doctors act as coordinators, making sure all your treatments work well together.
This reduces the chances of conflicting treatments and makes managing your health easier.
Better Outcomes
Studies have shown that older adults who see geriatric primary care doctors have better health outcomes. This includes fewer hospital visits, better management of chronic conditions, and an overall improved quality of life.
2. Better Management of Multiple Medications
Understanding Drug Interactions
As you get older, you might need to take several medications for different health issues. Managing all these medications can be tough and dangerous if not done right.
Primary care doctors who specialize in elderly care know how different drugs interact and can adjust your medications to prevent harmful side effects.
Simplifying Medication Regimens
Taking many medications can be confusing and overwhelming. Geriatric primary care doctors can make your medication routine simpler, making it easier for you to handle.
They might prescribe drugs that do more than one job, so you don’t have to take as many pills every day.
Frequent Medication Reviews
Geriatric primary care doctors often check patients’ medications to make sure they still work well and are needed. This regular review helps stop medications that aren’t needed anymore, reducing side effects and improving your overall health.
3. Mental Health Monitoring
Checking for Cognitive Problems
Mental health is just as important as physical health, especially as you get older. Geriatric doctors who specialize in elderly care are trained to look for cognitive problems like dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Finding these issues early can help improve life with the right treatments.
Dealing with Mental Health Issues
Depression and anxiety are common in older adults but often go unnoticed. Elderly care doctors can spot these mental health problems and provide the right treatments.
They can also refer you to specialists, if needed, making sure you get complete mental health care.
Support for Caregivers
Taking care of an elderly loved one can be stressful. Geriatric doctors help not just the patient but also their caregivers. They provide support and guidance to help caregivers manage their tasks better.
4. Preventive Care
Regular Health Checkups
Preventive care is important for geriatric patients. That’s why doctors suggest regular health checkups and health screenings to find problems early.
This might include blood work, bone health checks, or cancer tests. These screenings can help keep you healthy and avoid issues later on.
Healthy Lifestyle Tips
Geriatric doctors also give advice on how to live a healthier life. This can include tips on what to eat, how to exercise, getting good sleep, and managing stress. These simple changes can make a big difference in how you feel every day.
Vaccinations and Shots
Older adults can get sick more easily. Geriatric doctors make sure patients get important shots like the flu shot, pneumonia vaccine, and shingles vaccine. These shots can help protect you from serious illnesses.
5. Better Quality of Life
Staying Independent
One of the main goals of caring for older adults is to help them live better lives. Doctors who take care of older adults focus on helping them stay independent for as long as possible.
This might mean using special mobility devices, making changes at home to reduce the risk of falls, and doing other things to keep them safe and moving around easily.
Managing Pain
Older adults often have chronic pain. Geriatric primary care doctors know many ways to manage pain that can make everyday life better for patients.
This might include medicine, physical therapy, or other treatments to reduce pain and increase comfort.
Being Social
Being socially active is very important for mental and emotional health. Geriatric doctors often suggest that older adults join community activities and social groups. They understand how important human connections are for staying healthy.
Geriatric Doctor Near Me
If you’re ready to take the next step in optimizing your health, visit us here at David Schumer MD and Modeline Jules NP Family Clinic. Our providers, Dr. David Schumer and nurse practitioner Modeline Jules, understand the unique health concerns of older adults ages 65 and older.
To learn more about us, call today at (253) 804-3483 or request your appointment using our secure online form. We look forward to serving you!
