5 Questions to Ask Your Geriatric Doctors

Geriatric physicians specialize in caring for adults in the older population with multiple or complex medical needs. They focus particularly on keeping their patients functional and helping them maintain a good quality of life. Geriatric physicians often work with family members and understand the role of caregivers. These doctors receive additional training in treating older adults, particularly those over the age of 65. People in this age range often have multiple or complex health matters and need specialized care; geriatric physicians have the training and experience necessary to address these issues.

The age for geriatric medicine is geared towards people who are 65 and older, but that does not mean every individual needs a geriatric physician as soon as they reach this age. In some cases, patients may be fine continuing to see their usual doctor, but it is always a good idea to prepare for when the need arises.
 
As people get older, their bodies experience many changes that often result in the development of health conditions, some of which are chronic. Some examples include osteoporosis, incontinence, high blood pressure, arthritis, diabetes, high cholesterol, and vision and hearing loss. Because treatments for one condition can make another condition worse, geriatricians understand how multiple conditions affect each other as well as the contraindications of various treatments.

Geriatric physicians help to keep the senior population healthy, addressing their medical needs and managing their health problems to improve their quality of life. Geriatric physicians are necessary because:

• Seniors often require specialized health attention
• They maintain optimal geriatric health and wellness
• They coordinate care between caregivers and doctors
• They provide a safe, positive environment
• Health problems can occur/intensify with age
• Complications can occur from additional declines

Geriatric physicians treat a variety of conditions and diseases that commonly affect older patients, including ones that involve physical, emotional, and mental health, such as:

Chronic diseases and conditions, including:
• High blood pressure
• Osteoporosis
• Arthritis
• Diabetes

Common health concerns, including:
• Falls
• Memory loss
• Urinary incontinence
• Side effects caused by taking several medications

Infections, including:
• Influenza
• Pneumonia
• Urinary tract infections

Injuries, including:
• Small lacerations
• Sprains
• Strains
• Fractures

Mental conditions and disorders, including:
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Bipolar disorder

Sexual health, including:
• Infections
• Diseases
• Sexual dysfunction

Skin problems, including:
• Minor burns
• Infections
• Rashes

Weight problems, including:
• Obesity
• Malnutrition

Seeing a geriatric physician is important, and how often one should see a geriatric physician varies from one person to the next. Patients in generally good health are often recommended to see their geriatrician once a year, while others with more complex health needs typically need to see their doctor more frequently, and may include multiple visits a year.

If you need professional geriatric care, come to Dr. Shima Hadidchi MD Family Practice. Call us or schedule an appointment online with our geriatrician, or visit our clinic. We have convenient locations to serve you in Apple Valley, CA and Victorville, CA. We serve patients from Victorville CA, Apple Valley CA, Adelanto CA, Hesperia CA, Crestline CA, Highland CA, Barstow CA, and BEYOND!