Geriatric Medicine (Elderly Care)

As we age, health problems become more common, and it’s not unusual to experience multiple conditions simultaneously. While modern medicine is typically divided into specialties - ideal for addressing individual issues like a painful hip - managing overlapping or complex health challenges requires a different approach. This is where a geriatrician comes in.

A geriatrician is a medical doctor specialising in the healthcare needs of older adults. They focus on diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and disabilities while promoting overall well-being and independence. Here’s what their role involves: 

Holistic care - to assess overall health, addressing multiple symptoms at once with personalised treatment plans.  

Diagnosis and management - of chronic conditions such as frailty, dementia, and mobility issues, to ensure comprehensive care.  

A focus on quality of life - to help maintain independence, manage aging-related challenges, and enhance overall well-being.  

Team collaboration - with other professionals like nurses, physiotherapists, and social workers to provide integrated care.  

Geriatric medicine covers a range of conditions commonly associated with aging, including:

Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease

Osteoporosis and fractures

Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders

Stroke and rehabilitation

Frailty and falls prevention

Incontinence and continence management.

As we grow older, certain symptoms may indicate the onset of age-related conditions that require specialised elderly care. These symptoms can vary depending on the underlying health issues but often include: 

Memory loss and confusion - may be early signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, particularly if they begin to interfere with daily life and decision-making.  

Difficulty walking and mobility issues - challenges in maintaining balance, frequent falls, or reduced strength could be linked to frailty, musculoskeletal conditions like osteoporosis, or neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.  

Chronic pain - in the joints, back, or muscles may signify conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis, or nerve damage.  

Unexplained weight loss - could point to an underlying medical issue requiring attention.  

Incontinence - loss of bladder or bowel control is a common symptom that may be due to age-related muscle changes or neurological conditions.  

Vision or hearing decline - might indicate conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, or age-related hearing loss.  

Mood changes - such as depression, irritability, or anxiety are common in older adults and could be connected to physical health challenges or social isolation.  

Geriatric medicine takes a holistic approach, addressing these symptoms comprehensively to support overall well-being and independence. If you notice any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, consulting a geriatrician can provide invaluable guidance and care.

Diagnosing age-related conditions involves a holistic approach to understand the patient's physical, cognitive, and social health needs. Common diagnostic tests include:

Physical examinations - to identify pain, mobility issues, and signs of frailty or neurological conditions.

Cognitive assessments - to screen for dementia, Alzheimer’s, or depression.

Urine and blood tests - to check for infections and measure substances like calcium and uric acid.

Imaging studies:

X-rays - detect fractures or osteoporosis.

CT scans/MRIs - provide detailed internal views for complex diagnoses.

Ultrasounds - non-invasively detect kidney, bladder, or mobility concerns.

Functional evaluations - assess daily activities and independence.

Geriatric medicine provides tailored treatment plans to address the unique needs of older adults. It aims to improve quality of life, maintain independence, and support overall well-being in older adults. They include:  

Medication management for chronic conditions – to ensure safe and effective use of medications, taking into account multiple medications and age-related changes in how the body processes drugs.  

Rehabilitation programmes – that focus on improving mobility, strength, and balance, helping patients recover from injuries or illnesses and regain independence. These may involve physiotherapy or occupational therapy.  

Preventive care – to reduce the risk of falls and fractures through personalised exercise programmes, home safety modification advice, and strategies to maintain bone health, such as calcium and vitamin D supplementation.  

Support and education for caregivers - guidance on managing the health and well-being of elderly loved ones to equip caregivers with the knowledge and resources they need to provide effective care while also addressing their own emotional and physical needs.  

Surgical procedures - if surgery is necessary, such as a joint replacement, the Consultant Geriatrician will refer on to a Consultant Surgeon specialising in that area to ensure expert care.

Ramsay Health Care is proud to deliver expert geriatric care tailored to the unique needs of older adults. Our experienced specialists provide compassionate care, addressing the physical, mental, and social challenges of aging with personalised treatment plans aimed at improving well-being and independence.  

Our Consultant Geriatricians work closely with other specialists, such as those in oncology, cardiology, and neurology, ensuring quick referrals and holistic care. Patients may also be seamlessly referred to other professionals in our multidisciplinary team, like dieticians and physiotherapists, to support comprehensive elderly care.

With state-of-the-art facilities, we offer advanced diagnostics, chronic condition management, rehabilitation programs, and preventive care. 
At Ramsay Health Care, we are committed to empowering older adults to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives with the highest standard of care.