Geriatric care doctors are specially trained to help older adults through the aging process.
With most seniors already seeing a multitude of medical professionals, could there really be any benefit to adding yet another? In the case of a geriatric care doctor, the answer is a resounding, “Yes!”
A geriatrician is board-certified in either internal or family medicine, much like a primary care physician, but with the extra advantage of being certified in geriatric medicine. Geriatric care specialists are recommended in particular by the American Geriatrics Society for people who are:
- Experiencing significant frailty and/or impairment
- Diagnosed with several chronic conditions
- Battling a condition which causes sizable levels of stress to family caregivers
With a holistic strategy to care, a geriatric care specialist will create an in-depth, individualized plan for aging that takes into account both previous and existing health history. The plan will tackle issues such as activities of daily living (meals, personal hygiene, dressing, etc.) along with the specific challenges associated with the senior’s diagnoses, as well as an evaluation of the home environment and care that is currently in position. The geriatrician will work directly with the older adult’s support network – family, friends, and caregivers – to make sure all bases are covered as it pertains to meeting care needs.
Determining the best geriatrician is crucial. A great starting place is the AGS Foundation for Health in Aging (800-563-4916), which offers referrals to geriatric specialists by area. After you have a list of qualified geriatricians nearby, you can narrow down your search by getting answers to these key questions:
- Is he or she covered under the older adult’s medical care plan?
- What are his/her qualifications, including medical education?
- How many years of experience does he/she have?
- Where is the office located, and what are their policies and hours?
You’ll also want to ensure the geriatrician communicates well, since this will be a fundamental component to the quality of your senior loved one’s care. After you’ve selected the geriatric specialist you would like to try, hang on to the list of alternate providers until after you’ve set up your first appointment and determined that the one you have chosen will be a good fit.
In addition to the geriatrician, a group of specialists with expertise in geriatric care will likely be included, which might be comprised of a social worker, nurse, dietitian, physical and occupational therapist, and psychiatrist. Ideally, the team will work cohesively to address any and all issues, both now and proactively as the older adult’s needs change with time.
Inspired Home Care is always readily available to assist as well, using our significant knowledge of aging care and our attention to the specific needs of each senior we have the honor of serving. Reach out to us at 847-787-7572 to ask about our top-rated Barrington home care services, to obtain answers to the questions you have, or to ask about a free in-home assessment. Learn about our full service area by visiting this page.