Health & Fitness
65 or older? Specialized medical care matters.
It's a common misconception that geriatric medicine is only for weak or frail older adults. In reality, it's appropriate for everyone 65+.
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We all go through normal changes as we grow older. That’s where specialized, age-appropriate care comes in. You might know this kind of care as geriatric medicine. And, you might think that it refers to care for weak or frail older adults.
In reality, geriatric medicine focuses on health and well-being for everyone 65 and up. Also called age-friendly care, geriatric medicine is about providing holistic care that recognizes the complexities of aging. It prioritizes the physical, emotional and social well-being of older adults – making it a critical part of anyone’s healthcare as they get older and seek to age in place.
Here are a few things to look for when evaluating whether a provider is age-friendly and can tailor care to your needs at this phase of life.
Experts in the aging process
Aging brings with it a host of changes that can significantly impact health. People 65+ may face multiple chronic conditions simultaneously, such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and joint pain. The aging body also reacts differently to medications and treatments. Older adults are more susceptible to adverse drug reactions and complications from medical procedures. They may also experience changes in brain function, making it more difficult to adhere to treatment plans or recognize symptoms of worsening conditions.
These complexities highlight the need for an approach that goes beyond what most of us have come to expect from our primary care providers – i.e., annual exams, flu shots and sick visits. Instead, age-friendly care focuses on your total health and well-being, which is not often addressed in traditional primary care approaches. Whether someone is physically active, medication-free, managing multiple chronic conditions or has mobility or cognitive challenges, an age-friendly practitioner provides care that addresses the unique health needs of aging adults.
Proactive, whole-person care
Age-friendly practitioners take a person-centered approach to care, considering the whole individual rather than just their medical conditions. This holistic perspective allows them to work with patients and their loved ones to develop care plans that are realistic, achievable, and aligned with the patient’s goals.
These practitioners consider not only your medical history, but also your unique values and preferences, personal goals and any barriers to aging well. By taking this comprehensive approach, age-friendly experts can identify potential issues early on, such as frailty, depression or cognitive decline, and develop a plan that addresses these concerns. The key is being proactive – and to understand and stay with you over time as your needs change.
Good communicators
Age-friendly care is grounded in the understanding that aging is a natural process, and the goal is not just to treat illnesses but to enhance the overall quality of life. It involves creating healthcare environments that are accessible, respectful and responsive to the needs of adults 65+.
Clinicians who specialize in geriatric care are trained to communicate effectively with you, taking the time to listen to your concerns, answer questions and talk about what matters most to you and your loved ones. Communication between you and your providers is essential. You should feel comfortable speaking up – and feel secure in knowing that you will be heard.
Your advocate
For adults aged 65 and older, seeing a healthcare provider who is focused on geriatric medicine can make a significant difference in your health outcomes and quality of life. These providers should not just be experts in managing medical conditions; they should be your advocate, helping you navigate the complexities of aging with dignity and independence.
They should work as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with other healthcare professionals including specialists such as cardiologists, pulmonologists and rheumatologists (among others); social workers; community resources; physical therapists; and pharmacists. This coordinated, team-based approach ensures that all aspects of your health are addressed, providing comprehensive care that supports your overall well-being.
Geriatric medicine is essential for ensuring that you – regardless of your health status – receive the specialized, age-friendly care you need to live well and thrive. Seeing an expert in age-friendly care is a vital step in maintaining your independence, dignity and overall well-being.
Patina is a medical practice that focuses on age-friendly care for adults 65+. Patina can serve as your primary care provider or work alongside your existing doctor. Enjoy the same great benefits – no extra cost! If you’d like to learn more about Patina or schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (800) 936-8142. We love meeting new patients!
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