At what age is a patient considered geriatric?

From a chronological point of view, medical treatment for older people (geriatrics) begins at age 65. This definition itself exists today.

Geriatric

patients, often classified as elderly people, generally older than sixty-five years of age, present unique healthcare challenges, especially for those in need of Home Care in Lake Mary FL. Aging causes changes that affect the body and mind, leading to the need for specialized care. This age group is more susceptible to chronic diseases, polypharmacy (the use of multiple medications) and geriatric syndromes such as incontinence, delirium, and frailty. Studies show that depression affects about 14% of older adults who need home health care and nearly 12% of elderly hospitalized patients.

In addition to online research, you can check with the nearest hospital or university medical center, where geriatricians may be available to care for new patients. Because geriatricians are a type of family doctor with specialized training in caring for older patients, you may not need to see both doctors. Geriatricians can be an excellent resource for preventing and treating conditions that may appear with age, and they can work with you and those who are already helping you with your health care needs. If you're 65 or older and are concerned about the changes you're seeing in your health, you should see a geriatrician, especially if you find it difficult to get through the day. The National Council on Aging reports that nearly 95% of adults age 60 and older have at least one lifelong condition, and nearly 80% have two or more.

Elderly patients often require treatment for multiple chronic diseases, a careful approach to polypharmacy, and special consideration of age-related physical and cognitive changes. For example, dizziness or shortness of breath may be a sign of depression in an older patient, but can easily be confused with heart disease. In addition to chronological age, other factors must be taken into account to define the elderly patient. This definition, by itself, is certainly not an adequate definition of an elderly patient today or the reason to be treated by a geriatrician.

This is the name of a doctor who specializes in caring for older adults, usually 65 years of age or more. Geriatricians are trained to diagnose and treat conditions prevalent in old age, such as dementia and frailty, and to provide person-centered care. Gerontology is considered multidisciplinary, meaning that experts in this field may be interested in a variety of topics, such as public policy, psychology, or even economics. Consider writing a list of questions that are important to you and having a quick conversation with your geriatrician before you commit.