Should I see a Geriatrician after 60?
Just like there are pediatricians for the young, there are specialized doctors for the elderly. Medical concerns that elders face are very different from those that a young adult would face. Since the problems are very different it calls for a different approach.
Most elders have multiple co existing health problems or complex conditions. The geriatrician not only cares for them but also coordinates between various specialist who may be involved .The geriatrician understand that often not all conditions can be treated, so the focus is to alleviate the condition, and help them live to the best of their capabilities- physical and mental. Switching to a geriatrician from their long-time doctor can be a big step for the elder, however this leap of faith has to be taken to serve oneself better
Who are geriatricians?
They are doctors who specialize in the health care needs of the elderly says “Vishnu Vittel, Director, Grand World Elder Care”.
Why does an elderly person need a geriatrician? Just like there are pediatricians for the young, there are specialized doctors for the elderly. Medical concerns that elders face are very different from those that a young adult would face.
Since the problems are very different it calls for a different approach. Most elders have multiple co existing health problems or complex conditions. The geriatrician not only cares for them but also coordinates between various specialist who may be involved .The geriatrician understand that often not all conditions can be treated, so the focus is to alleviate the condition, and help them live to the best of their capabilities- physical and mental.
What can I expect
Unlike a physician who addresses specific problems most of the times , a Geriatrician in addition to addressing specific problems goes through the entire check up as co- morbid conditions are more in the elderly.
Preventive medicine, psychology and physiotherapy, rehabilitative medicine are a huge part of geriatric care as elders are more prone for falls, dementia, osteoporosis, arthritis, incontinence, depression etc.
The nursing faculty also makes an important part of the geriatric team as very often elders require care–ranging from occasional help to complete help for day to day activity
Research before making a decision
In most cases, word of mouth and family references work, yet it is always better to do your research and then jump into the decision making process.
- Always have a thorough understanding and knowledge of the person you are hiring.
- Pay attention to small details and note down of necessary information.
- Make a smooth transition and arrangements that will help your elderly in the best way possible.
It is your responsibility to make sure everything is going smoothly and this will only happen once you assess your choice rightly.
Monitoring their health
With age comes a lot of difficulties and slowly people lose their flexibility and that brings a lot of pain.
- To help them active, always encourage them to do exercises
- Maintain their diet and medicine intake
- Keep a track of their dosage
- Engage them in a social or recreational activity which will help them relax
- Boredom can bring a lot of trouble, make sure they are happy.
It is important to make a note of their mental health properly. Happy minds will have a healthy body.
Arranging for the right care
When you are in need to find the right place of care for your elderly person, assisted living can be one of the options to think of. Assisted living is an exclusive facility for elders who need residential care and the comfort of a homely environment while enjoying all the benefits of professional caregivers. This is a place where rehabilitative and restorative care, respite care and many other services are provided to give the elderly a happy life. From physical support to emotional support all are provided with utmost care. Constant attention to every detail and needs are addressed so that the elderly person is cared for. You must understand all the options and then decide which way to go.
There are many ways but which is suitable for you and your parents is up to you. You can get as much information as you want, but taking the right decision is crucial for a happy future life.
