Geriatric Medicine Specialist Near Me

A geriatric medicine specialist, also known as a geriatrician, is a specialized medical doctor who seeks to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases and threatening disabilities in older or aging adults. Geriatric doctors are highly trained in dealing with the obstacles many older individuals face while deep in the aging process. Unlike a regular physician, these doctors have received specialized training to be well versed in the issues of older adults.

Are in interested in finding a geriatric medicine specialist near me? Simply browse geriatric medicine specialist near me on the map below and find a list of qualified doctors in your region. Need a bit more information on geriatric physicians? Read on for interesting facts, trivia, and more!

Geriatric Medicine Specialist Near Me – Find it on the Map

Geriatric Medicine Specialist Near Me – Geriatric Medicine Specialist Trivia

There are many major differences between a general family physician and a geriatric medicine specialist, including the type of care provided and the age group in which they provide for. What do geriatric medicine specialists do? Consider this as you search geriatric medicine specialist near me. Unlike a traditional family physician who treats individuals of all ages, including infants, geriatricians tend to provide comprehensive care for those who are in the late stages of their lives. Typically patients seeking the care of a geriatric medicine specialist are 55 or older. Every geriatrician is board certified, with a speciality in either family medicine or internal medicine. Additionally, these doctors receive thorough training and certification in the practice of geriatric medicine. Geriatric physicians are concerned with the myriad of health problems that tend to affect older adults. Ailments such as joint pain, memory loss, incontinence, and medication side effects are all treated by geriatricians. A geriatrician is also vital in evaluating whether or not a patient is able to care for themselves or whether they will require some assistance in everyday activities such as bathing, eating, and driving. Medical conditions that are often treated by geriatricians include:

– Stroke
– Sleep disorders
– Parkinson’s
– Osteoporosis
– Heart disease
– Dementia
– Diabetes
– Alzheimer’s disease
– Cancer
– Rheumatoid arthritis

A geriatric medicine specialist is well versed in caring for older adults.

Not everyone who is diagnosed with one of these conditions will need the assistance of a geriatrician. Generally speaking, these diseases do affect older age groups more frequently than those under 50. Given that more people are over the age of 65 in the US than ever before, geriatricians have developed great improvements in medical care, leading to a higher quality of life for aging individuals. Growing older is no longer marked by health issues and immobility. Thanks to technology, preventative care practices, and great advances in medicine, older populations are enjoying an amazing quality of life well into their 70s and 80s.

Geriatric Medicine Specialist Near Me – Geriatric Medicine Specialist Facts

A Holistic Approach

Unlike many traditional physicians, geriatric medicine specialists often take a more holistic approach to medicine. Rather than just over prescribing medicines to patients, they often seek to improve their quality of life. How do geriatric specialists take a holistic approach to medicine? Consider this as you search geriatric medicine specialist near me. A geriatric healthcare team isn’t concerned with treating your medical conditions, instead they opt for a more holistic approach by evaluating past illnesses and current symptoms in order to concoct a healthy aging plan. In this aging plan, doctor’s will help improve overall wellness, increase independence, and maintain mobility. For example, if you’re someone who is suffering from frailty and have difficulty completing activities such as bathing or dressing, your geriatric care team will work to evaluate your symptoms and address the concerns that are most important to you. This includes making changes in your living conditions, environment, and gaining support in the form of family or friends. The goal of geriatric medicine is safety and quality of life. This means making small changes to ensure a patient is safe and always receiving the best care possible. While drugs can help with comfort, many geriatricians are not the ones who will be prescribing your medications.

How to find the right geriatric medicine specialist?

While searching geriatric medicine specialist near me, you may be wondering how you can actually find the doctor that’s right for you. The first step is always consulting with your primary care doctor. They are well aware of your medical history and tend to know you on a more personal level. More often than not, they will refer you to a qualified geriatric medicine specialist in your area. Your insurance company many also be a great help in finding the right specialist. While likability and high scores are great, they don’t mean anything if your insurance won’t foot the bill. Always strive to find an in-network doctor that meets your criteria. A simple phone call can simply this process. You can also find a great local geriatrician by calling the AGS foundation for Health in Aging. This non-profit organization provides a great referral service that can help match you with the best doctor for your specific needs. Prior to choosing a doctor, always narrow your list down to about two or three candidates. Then feel free to call their offices to ask specific questions that are relevant to you. Don’t’ feel awkward in asking to meet the doctor before becoming a patient or in taking a tour of the facilities. Your health and time are valuable, finding the right doctor is truly the key in maintaining a great quality of life and receiving the care you deserve.