Understanding the role of a geriatrician
A geriatrician is a medical doctor who completes a residency in internal or family medicine, followed by specialized training through a geriatrics fellowship. This advanced education equips them with an in-depth understanding of the aging process and its specific impact on the body and mind. While a general practitioner provides care to people of all ages, a geriatrician's practice is focused specifically on older patients, typically those over the age of 65. This specialization allows them to address a wide range of age-related health issues, from managing multiple chronic diseases to coordinating with other specialists and providing comprehensive care.
Core aspects of geriatric care
Geriatric care is not just about treating age-related diseases; it's a holistic, patient-centered approach. Geriatricians focus on maintaining or improving an older adult's overall quality of life, independence, and functionality. They are experts in addressing complex medical scenarios where multiple health conditions and medications interact with each other. This often involves:
- Comprehensive geriatric assessments: A thorough evaluation of a patient's physical, mental, and social health, as well as their functional status and environment.
- Medication management: A careful review of all medications to prevent harmful drug interactions and side effects, a condition often called polypharmacy.
- Care coordination: Acting as a quarterback to ensure all healthcare providers—from cardiologists to physical therapists—are working together on a cohesive treatment plan.
- Functional independence: Creating strategies to help patients maintain mobility and perform daily activities safely, often by addressing issues like falls, balance, and frailty.
- Cognitive health: Screening for and managing age-related cognitive issues, such as dementia and memory impairment.
- Addressing psychosocial factors: Recognizing and providing support for issues like social isolation, depression, and caregiver stress.
Geriatrician vs. General Practitioner
To better understand the value a geriatrician provides, it's helpful to compare their role with that of a general practitioner (GP) or primary care physician (PCP). While both are essential, their approaches differ, especially for patients with complex health needs.
| Feature | Geriatrician | General Practitioner (GP) |
|---|---|---|
| Specialization | Focused exclusively on the healthcare needs of older adults, with specific training in the aging process. | Provides general medical care for patients of all ages, from children to seniors. |
| Expertise | Deep understanding of age-related conditions like dementia, osteoporosis, and frailty, as well as complex medication interactions. | Broad knowledge across all common health issues, but less specialized experience with complex senior care. |
| Care Approach | Holistic and comprehensive. Considers physical, cognitive, social, and emotional factors in a patient's overall health. | Typically addresses general health needs, referring to other specialists as more complex issues arise. |
| Care Team | Often works as a coordinator within a larger interdisciplinary team, including pharmacists, social workers, and physical therapists. | Manages patient's basic health needs and makes referrals to specialists when necessary. |
| Best For | Patients with multiple chronic conditions, complex medication regimens, or age-related syndromes like falls and cognitive decline. | Patients with straightforward health needs or those in their younger years who do not have multiple chronic conditions. |
When is it the right time to see a geriatrician?
Deciding when to consult a geriatrician can depend on an individual's specific health needs, not just a set age. A referral may be appropriate if an older adult is experiencing any of the following:
- Multiple complex health issues: Managing several chronic diseases at once, such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis.
- Complicated medication regimens: Taking multiple prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs, which increases the risk of side effects and dangerous interactions.
- Age-related syndromes: Dealing with conditions like falls, frailty, dizziness, or incontinence.
- Functional decline: Experiencing a noticeable decrease in the ability to perform daily activities, such as dressing, bathing, or cooking.
- Memory concerns: Exhibiting memory loss, confusion, or other cognitive changes that are impacting their well-being.
Even for those who are healthy, a geriatrician can provide a valuable comprehensive geriatric assessment to establish a baseline and focus on preventative care. Early intervention can lead to a higher quality of life and better long-term health outcomes.
How to find a geriatrician
There are several ways to find a qualified geriatrician. Your current primary care physician can often provide a referral, especially if they believe your health needs are becoming more complex and would benefit from a specialist's expertise. Another option is to use an online locator tool from a reputable organization, such as the American Geriatrics Society, which lists certified healthcare professionals. Additionally, hospital systems and university medical centers often have dedicated geriatric medicine departments with a team of specialists. Search the American Geriatrics Society's online locator for a specialist near you.
Conclusion
For many, a family or internal medicine doctor is sufficient for managing health throughout adulthood. However, the advanced training and holistic approach of a geriatrician offer significant benefits for older adults with complex health needs. These specialists are crucial for coordinating care, managing medications, and addressing age-specific conditions to help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life. Understanding what is a doctor who specializes in the elderly called and knowing their role can be the first step toward securing more specialized, person-centered care for yourself or a loved one as you navigate the challenges of aging. A geriatrician’s expertise can be the key to a healthier, happier life in your senior years.
