Geriatrician, or physician for the old age (Geriatrician), is a special medical doctor who takes care of older patients. Geriatricians, who are board-certified in old-age medicine, specialize in issues that affect the aging population. They coordinate care for older patients, as well as diagnosing and treating any age-related problems. These doctors can provide care alongside other medical professionals. These are just a few reasons to visit a Geriatrician.
They diagnose and treat medical conditions that are age-related
Doctors need to be sensitive to elderly patients during their workday. The elderly are at greater risk for developing age-related conditions, such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Older people are also susceptible to mental and cognitive declines. This article will review common discussions that doctors have with patients over the age of 65 and examine relevant changes as they relate to normal aging. Then, it will discuss common diseases, and the cognitive and psychological changes associated with aging.
They coordinate older patient care
This study sought to understand the current context of primary health care teams and the services offered to older adults in the community. The findings will be used to help doctors develop a primary care coordination model that addresses the needs of older patients. A representative sample of care coordinators was also surveyed by researchers to get their opinions on the issues facing this population. Some of the challenges identified by participants included lack of patient involvement in the planning process, trouble coordinating care across health care systems, and limited knowledge of services available to older adults.
They work together with other health care providers to coordinate their care
The study found that the ability of doctors to coordinate care is crucial to ensuring patient safety. Care coordination makes it easier for multiple health professionals to communicate with each other, reducing the chances of having to order unnecessary tests or treatments. According to a surprising 61% percent of seniors, their doctors asked questions about their treatment plan and who they were seeing. Twenty-eight% indicated that they would be happy to receive follow-up telephone calls from their physicians. 52 percent said they would love to be part of a chronic disease management group.
They perform pre-operative assessments
A preoperative assessment of cardiac risk is an integral part. Its goal is to determine patients with unstable heart disease who may benefit from a delay in surgery. Stress tests are not necessary if the patient is functionally stable and able to climb stairs. The preoperative cardiac risk assessment may reveal other conditions that can affect the outcome of surgery if a patient has been bedridden.
They treat falls
Older people are more likely to experience falls than any other problem. While more than a quarter of senior citizens report falling every year, fewer than half report the fall to their doctor. Many fall victims don't report their injuries to their doctor, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even if they do, a fall can result in serious injury or death. You can fall due to poor balance or other factors.