Geriatrics
Specialized, Comprehensive Care for Aging Adults
A geriatrician is a primary care doctor who has specialized training in the health needs of aging adults. If you or your loved ones are over 60, being treated by a geriatrician can make all the difference.
As we age, the body goes through changes. It is important to distinguish between the effects of normal aging and disease. We focus on your unique needs and take into account your previous health issues and lifestyle choices.
We provide a full spectrum of care for older adults, from addressing the natural aging that occurs within our bodies to managing multiple medical problems. Our geriatricians have a comprehensive understanding of how these issues can affect a aging body’s ability to function day to day and how the conditions should be treated.
At UPHS, our team knows the importance of helping you to maintain independent living and providing social support while using a holistic approach that emphasizes healthy aging and preventive care.
5 Great Reasons to See a Geriatrician
Multiple medical issues. You’ve lived an interesting life. Along the way, our bodies can get a little beaten up! As you progress into your later life, you may now be managing several medical conditions that have arisen throughout the years. A geriatrician has specialized experience in the complex ways that diseases interact with each other in the aging body. By properly managing these diseases, we can help keep you healthy and strong for the coming years.
Memory problems. Perhaps you’re having trouble remembering things. You walk into a room and don’t remember what you were doing. Sometimes more serious issues arise when we notice our loved ones acting unusually or having difficulty with everyday tasks. We are trained to identify the difference between normal aging and those of a more serious condition or illness. Some loss of cognition is an unavoidable part of getting older, but certain symptoms may indicate more serious conditions, like depression or Alzheimer’s disease.
Frailty. You want to retain your independence. Getting around is important, whether you love to hike, ski, or just take a relaxing walk in the woods. It can become difficult to continue our favorite activities as we get older. While frailty, to some degree, is an unavoidable aspect of getting older, if it starts to affect your ability to function independently and safely, it may be time to see a geriatrician. A geriatrician can help recognize more complex medical issues and make sure you retain your sense of independence, prevent unnecessary falls, and help you keep your balance.
Multiple medications. A geriatrician is trained to understand how the aging body processes numerous medications. Prescriptions can help save our lives and make us feel better. But the aging body can also be more susceptible to side effects from prescriptions. Working with a geriatrician to closely monitor your medications can help keep you feeling your best.
Caregiving advice. Sometimes we must recognize that we need a little help. Or, we might see a family member struggling with daily tasks, like getting dressed, eating, or using the bathroom. A geriatrician can provide guidance for finding the right assistance and support from professionals such as a care manager or home aide.