Most of the population in the world is aging rapidly. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of people aged 60 years and older is expected to double by 2050, reaching over 2 billion globally. This demographic shift is largely driven by rising life expectancies and declining birth rates. 

The growth of the older population brings a shift in healthcare needs that no one can deny. As people age, their health and functional abilities also change. In simple terms, the same approach to medical care in middle age is no longer enough to suffice as one grows older. Understanding and adapting to the unique needs of the aging population is imperative for healthcare systems worldwide. This kind of health optimization approach for elder people requires specialized knowledge and skills. 

In this article, you will not only learn about the benefits of choosing a primary care physician with expertise in geriatric medicine but also why and how they are beneficial and learn how to choose the right geriatric medical practitioner for your loved ones.

The Unique Expertise of Geriatricians

The multifaceted health challenges faced by older adults highlight the need for healthcare providers specifically trained in geriatric medicine. Geriatricians are primary care physicians who pursue additional fellowship training focused on the care of older patients. Locating a primary care physician with a background in geriatric medicine is an effortless endeavor. You can easily discover one by searching for ‘geriatricians near me‘ on your mobile devices. This specialized expertise equips them to effectively address the complex medical, psychosocial, and functional needs of the aging population. 

Compared to general internists, geriatricians have greater knowledge of:

1. The typical presentation of illnesses in older adults
2. Interplay between age-related physiological changes and diseases 
3. Optimizing health status while managing multiple chronic conditions
4. Impact of social determinants of health on an older patient.
5. Common geriatric syndromes like frailty fall, and functional decline

Geriatricians play numerous roles in caring for older patients. They diagnose and treat acute conditions, manage chronic diseases, oversee medications, and coordinate care plans. Geriatricians also guide patients and family members in making informed healthcare decisions, taking a team-based approach.

Their specialized expertise makes geriatricians ideal for optimizing the quality of life and independence of older adults. Research shows geriatric care improves outcomes while reducing healthcare costs.

Why Is Expert PCP in Geriatric Medicine Is Beneficial

With hypertension prevalence soaring as high as 86% in women aged 75 and over, it’s evident that a comprehensive approach to health is essential. Geriatricians take a holistic view when caring for older adults. Some hallmarks of their practice:

• Prioritize conditions and medications to enhance physical functioning and overall well-being. 
• Geriatricians are cautious about polypharmacy and aim to reduce inappropriate medications whenever possible.
• Extended consultation durations to thoroughly assess the patient’s health status and needs. 
• Appointments are structured to allow time for questions and to accommodate slower mobility.
• Emphasis on wellness, preventive health, and managing chronic conditions to support continued independent living. 
• Recommendations encompass nutrition, exercise, mental stimulation, social engagement, home safety, and more.
• Care coordination with specialists, therapists, and caregivers. Geriatricians oversee the patient’s complete care plan.

And this holistic care doesn’t just stop at outpatient treatment. The benefits of geriatric expertise extend even during hospital stays.

The Benefits of Geriatric Care During Hospitalization 

Hospitalization can be a daunting experience, especially for older adults. However, research shows that when cared for by geriatric specialists during hospitalization, older patients have:

1. Improved Functional Outcomes

When under the care of geriatric specialists during hospitalization, older patients tend to experience better functional outcomes after they’re discharged. This means they are more likely to regain their abilities and independence.

2. Shorter Lengths of Stay

Geriatric care is associated with shorter hospital stays for older patients. This not only reduces the time spent in the hospital environment but also minimizes the risks associated with prolonged hospitalization.

3. Lower Readmission Rates

Older patients who receive geriatric care during their hospitalization are less likely to be readmitted to the hospital shortly after being discharged. This reflects the quality of care and support they receive during their initial hospital stay.

4. Increased Likelihood of Home Discharge

With geriatric specialists’ involvement, older patients have a higher chance of being discharged to their homes rather than to rehabilitation or nursing facilities. This reflects the focus on maintaining their independence and quality of life.

5. Thorough Assessment

Geriatric specialists conduct comprehensive assessments of older patients, considering their medical conditions, functional abilities, and psychosocial needs. This holistic evaluation guides the appropriate interventions and care during their hospital stay.

6. Medication Reconciliation

Geriatric care involves carefully reviewing a patient’s medications and reducing high-risk drugs. This helps prevent complications and adverse drug events, ensuring the patient’s safety and well-being.

7. Maintaining Mobility

Mobilization protocols and physical therapy are integral components of geriatric care. These measures aim to keep older patients active, maintain their physical strength, and minimize the risk of functional decline during their hospitalization.

8. Tailored Care Coordination

Geriatric specialists excel in coordinating care and planning for the patient’s discharge. They align the post-discharge plan with the patient’s goals and individual needs, ensuring a smoother transition from hospital to home.

When Is the Right Time to Consult a Geriatrician?

With so many health changes accompanying older age, a general question that would rise in one’s mind is – ‘when is the right time to transition from a general primary care physician to a geriatrician?’ There is no single definitive age. The choice depends on several factors:

• The Onset of Complex Health Conditions: When managing multiple chronic diseases, geriatric expertise can enhance care, especially if illnesses interact and treatments must be carefully balanced.
• Functional Status: Increased difficulty with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and household chores indicate a need for a geriatric focus on preserving independence.
• Advancing Age: While not the only factor, older age correlates with a higher likelihood of geriatric health concerns. Around age 7580 is a common transition time.
• Recent Hospitalizations: Older adults tend to experience functional decline after hospitalization. Geriatric care can facilitate recovery and reduce readmissions.

Choosing the Right Geriatrician for You

The leading causes of death among persons aged 65 and over include heart disease, cancer, and COVID-19. With such critical health concerns, it’s imperative to have a geriatrician who aligns with your health goals. 

When looking for geriatricians near me, resources l  can help identify quality-certified geriatric specialists in your local area. Beyond online searches, here are some additional tips for selecting a geriatrician:

1. Board Certification in Geriatric Medicine Make sure that your primary care physician has board certification in geriatric medicine. This validates the physician’s advanced expertise.
2. Evaluating Accessibility  Consider office location and availability of telehealth services. This ensures convenient care options. 
3. Insurance Coverage Review insurance coverage and hospital affiliations. This prevents unwelcome surprises with bills and referrals.
4. Communication Assess communication style at the initial consultation. The ideal geriatrician explains things clearly, answers questions patiently and involves you in decisions.
5. Coordination Ensure they coordinate care with your other physicians. Smooth inter-provider communication fosters optimal treatment across conditions.
6. Preferences  Discuss your preferences for end-of-life care during early visits. Having these difficult conversations when you are well-informed and can express your wishes is wise.

Key Takeaways

As the global population ages and life expectancies increase, high-quality primary care tailored for older adults is essential. Chronic conditions become more common, and older adults often face multiple comorbidities that require complex care coordination. 

Age-related physiological changes also influence disease presentation, treatment response, medication management, and more. So, geriatric medicine delivers this specialized expertise. If you or a loved one faces the health challenges associated with aging, a geriatrician may be the right physician to optimize care and well-being.