Understanding the Role of a Geriatrician
How a Geriatrician Complements Your Primary Care Physician
As an aging adult, you probably see a variety of doctors. Your primary care physician is likely your main resource, but you may see specialists like a cardiologist, urologist, or an orthopedic surgeon depending on your unique health concerns. Within the aging services community, we are seeing more older adults engaging the services of a geriatrician.
Geriatricians are primary care doctors that specialize in the care of adults ages 65 and up. Do you need to see a geriatrician? If you are managing multiple health conditions, it may be a good idea to connect with a local geriatrician. This individual has significant experience and training in helping older adults manage multiple conditions. Those issues might include:
- Mobility concerns
- Incontinence
- Dementia
- Nutrition
- Insomnia
- Diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Hearing and vision loss
- Frailty or balance issues
- Depression
- Cancer
In coordination with your primary care physician, a geriatrician can be a great resource who can help you create an individualized health management plan. The next time you visit your primary doctor, consider asking them for a referral.