What is Geriatric Care?
Geriatric care is the branch of healthcare that specializes in treating people as they age, physically and mentally each in a unique way depending on the needs of the patient. Professional geriatric providers help the elderly maintain a healthy lifestyle as they age and help manage their independence and keep them motivated to continue life. Managing the patient's symptoms and providing activities for daily living including diet, exercise, and social engagements all contribute to the emotional well-being of the elderly. Geriatric nurses are educated to understand and treat the often complex physical and mental health needs of older people. They try to help their patients protect their health and cope with changes in their mental and physical abilities, so older people can stay independent and active as long as possible.
Many of the medical conditions and symptoms that our elderly loved ones have to live with can now be managed better than ever before. Advances in diagnostics, imaging, medications and patient learning can ease pain and discomfort while bringing stability and confidence back to the family caregivers.
There are 5 “M”’s in geriatric care, which are the key areas geriatric focus on in their patients, the three most significant are
Mobility- impaired walking, fall prevention, and the amount of mobility the patient should be having
Mind- most commonly dementia and depression
Medications- managing the medications they are taking and their side effects
Why is Geriatric Care Important?
Geriatric Care is important because it helps the patients mind and body age easily and more calmly, and also helps them maintain their levels of happiness, motivation and independence preventing them from the feeling of loneliness, which according to researchers is more lethal than smoking 15 cigarettes per day. And lonely people are 50% more likely to die prematurely than those in healthy social active relationships.
Tucson Clinica Medica Familiar is a family medicine practice focused on providing high-quality care to patients of all ages! We specialize in family practice, pediatrician and geriatrics, Tucson Clinica Medica Familiar team works closely with each patient to develop personalized care plans aimed at promoting health and wellness.
We accept most health insurance, and also those without health insurance.
Call us at 520-620-1200 to learn more about us today. Or visit our website www.tucsonclinicamedicafamiliar.com
Comments