Geriatrics is a medical specialty that studies and treats the health problems of older adults (generally aged 65 and over). In the Geriatrics (Elderly Health) department, age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, osteoporosis and hypertension are treated, medication management is provided and the aim is to improve the quality of life of older adults.
What is Geriatrics (Elderly Health)?
Geriatrics is a medical specialty that deals with the health problems and diseases of individuals aged 65 and over, aiming to improve their quality of life. It is a subspecialty of internal diseases and takes a holistic approach to the biological changes associated with aging and the chronic conditions specific to older adults.
Old age is a delicate period in which multiple diseases can occur simultaneously and drug interactions are of critical importance. Geriatric specialists (geriatricians) not only treat existing diseases but also aim to help older adults maintain independent living and preserve their cognitive functions.
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What Diseases Does Geriatrics Department Treat?
The geriatrics department deals with the diagnosis and follow-up of complex health problems that become more common with advanced age and are referred to as geriatric syndromes. Main health problems focused on by geriatrics department are as follows:
- Dementia and Alzheimer: Memory loss, disorientation and cognitive decline are monitored.
- Hypertension and Diabetes: Blood glucose and blood pressure are monitored to prevent organ damage in older adults.
- Osteoporosis: The goal is to manage fracture risk associated with decreased bone density.
- Depression and anxiety: Mental health problems that develop in older age due to social isolation or loss are assessed.
- Urinary incontinence: Urinary system problems that significantly reduce quality of life are treated.
- Sarcopenia (muscle loss) and frailty: Measures are taken to address issues such as loss of muscle mass that restrict mobility.
- Polypharmacy (Multiple medication usage): Medication interactions and side effects are managed in patients who use more than four medications.
- Nutritional Disorders (Malnutrition): Nutritional deficiencies due to loss of appetite or absorption problems are corrected.
How Is Geriatric Evaluation Process Performed?
Comprehensive geriatric assessment is a multidisciplinary approach that evaluates the patient’s medical condition and their psychological, social and functional abilities. Unlike a standard examination, this process also thoroughly assesses whether the patient can independently perform activities of daily living. During the medical evaluation, the patient’s vision and hearing, balance capacity and risk of falling are assessed using specific tests. Geriatric evaluation helps reduce hospitalization rates in older adults while enabling them to live more safely at home.
Who Should Apply To Geriatrics Department?
It is not necessary to have a specific chronic disease to visit the geriatrics department, as this specialty also provides preventive healthcare services. The people below can apply to geriatrics department:
- All people who are 65 years old and over.
- People who are dealing with multiple chronic diseases at the same time (such as heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease etc.).
- People who experience forgetfulness, imbalance or difficulty walking in daily life.
- People who take multiple medications and concerned about their side effects.
- Older adults who have loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
What Is The Importance Of Multidisciplinary Approach In Elderly Health?
Diseases in old age often form a chain in which one condition triggers another. For example, joint pain can lead to inactivity and inactivity can result in depression or muscle loss. For this reason, geriatric specialists work in coordination with dietitians, physiotherapists and psychologists. This holistic approach strengthens not only the patient’s physical health but also their mental well-being and social connections. The aim is not to view aging as a disease process but to ensure a healthy, active and high-quality later life.
How Is The Medication Management In Geriatric Patients?
In older adults, a slowing of metabolism alters the duration and effects of drug elimination from the body. Geriatric specialists use international guidelines such as the Beers Criteria etc. to identify medications that may be risky for older adults. Discontinuing unnecessary medications is a vital step in improving the health of older adults. In this way, complications such as dizziness, confusion and gastrointestinal problems caused by drug interactions can be prevented.
Frequently Asked Questions About Geriatrics
What is the Difference Between Geriatrics and Internal Diseases?
While internal medicine focuses on general adult health; geriatrics is a subspecialty that deals with the diseases of individuals aged 65 and over.
How Old Do You Need To Apply To Geriatrics Department?
According to the World Health Organization and medical literature, individuals generally need to be 65 years or older to receive care in geriatric outpatient clinics.
Can You Go To Geriatrics For Complaint Of Forgetfulness?
Yes, geriatric specialists are involved in the early diagnosis and staging of conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Is Loss Of Appetite A Symptom Of A Disease In Older Adults?
Yes, loss of appetite in older adults may be a sign of depression, dental and oral health problems or an underlying chronic infection and it requires a geriatric evaluation.
Which Tests Are Used By Geriatrics Specialist?
In addition to the physical examination; cognitive screening tests (Mini Mental Test), balance and gait tests, nutritional screening tests and standard blood tests are performed.
Does Every Hospital Have A Geriatrics Department?
Since geriatrics is a subspecialty, it is usually available in university hospitals, training and research hospitals and some well-equipped private healthcare institutions.
How To Prevent Risk Of Falling In Elderly Adults?
Balance assessments performed by geriatricians, muscle-strengthening exercise recommendations and adjustments to remove home hazards (rugs, thresholds etc.) help reduce the risk of falls.
What Should Be Kept In Mind While Going For Geriatrics Appointment?
Having a relative who knows the patient’s daily routine, along with all medications used (including vitamins) and previous test results, is very important for the examination and diagnostic process.
Can You Go To Geriatrics For Sleep Disorders?
Yes, the geriatrics department also deals with changes in sleep patterns in older age and conditions such as sleep apnea.
Is Geriatric Care Only Provided To Sick People?
No, even healthy older adults should consult geriatrics to develop healthy aging strategies, receive vaccination follow-ups (pneumonia, flu, shingles) and maintain bone health.
