Geriatrics or geriatric medicine, is a specialty that focuses on the health care of elderly patients over the age of 65. It aims to promote health by preventing and treating diseases and disabilities in older adults. Whilst most doctors are trained in the management of adult and elderly patients, often the changes in physiology at the extreme of age creates additional challenges that Geriatricians are specialised to manage. Often certain conditions become more prevalent and more difficult to manage and it is often a careful balance between obtaining the best outcomes and improving or maintaining quality of life whilst minimising the potential side effects of treatment.
Situations and conditions that Geriatricians manage include but not limited to:
- Memory and dementia assessment
- Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia
- Depression and anxiety in the elderly
- Capacity assessments and fitness to drive
- Osteoporosis and falls risk management
- Medication review
- Advanced care planning
- Nursing home management
- Diagnosis and management of Parkinson’s Disease and related conditions