What is Geriatric Medicine Consultation: Overview, Benefits, and Expected Results

Definition and Overview

Individuals aged 65 years old and above who have existing health problems or require general medical care are encouraged to consult a geriatric medicine specialist. The goal of the consultation is to ensure that the patient is as healthy as possible by introducing proper care techniques and addressing existing medical issues promptly to reduce the risk for severe medical problems that are linked to advanced age.

Who Should Undergo and Expected Results

A geriatric medicine consultation will benefit all elderly individuals over the age of 65 years old especially those who suffer from specific medical problems, which include the following:

• Alzheimer’s disease and other cases of dementia or memory problems
• Neurological problems
• Parkinson’s disease
• Difficulties with movement or walking
• Incontinence or constipation
• Depression
• Mood and anxiety disorders
• Unexpected weight loss
• Arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Cardiovascular disease

If there are any difficulties faced in caring for the patient at home, a consultation may also shed some light on proper care techniques that will not only ensure the patient’s health but will also make it easier for his family members to care for him.

At the end of the consultation, the doctor will provide:

• A detailed assessment of an existing condition
• Advice on managing the patient’s situation in general
• A referral for tests, if more information is necessary to make a diagnosis

How the Procedure Works

This type of consultation is provided by a geriatric medicine specialist. The appointment takes place in his office or clinic, and may take between one and two hours or longer if some tests are to be conducted. The consultation is, in most cases, initiated by the patient’s family or his primary care physician, both of whom may be present during the appointment.

The consultation typically begins with an evaluation of the patient’s medical history, existing symptoms and lab test results. Thus, the specialist should be provided with all the necessary information, such as medical and hospitalization records, discharge summaries, medication list and recent events about the patient’s health.

The patient’s frailty level will then be evaluated based on the following factors:

• Weight
• Muscle strength or weakness
• Energy or exhaustion level
• Level of physical activity
• Walking speed

This frailty level will significantly influence the type and extent of care that the patient requires.

Guided by the available information, the specialist will provide his advice and suggestions, which will then be carried out or executed by the primary care physician, the patient’s relatives, a social worker or caregiver.

Possible Risks and Complications

A geriatric medicine consultation is an important step in ensuring that an elderly patient receives the right kind of medical and home care that he needs based on his specific situation or the state of his health. Since the consultation mostly involves an interview and a discussion, it is perfectly safe for all patients.

In fact, this consultation can help protect them from risks and possible complications that they are more susceptible to, given their age, especially when they do not receive the ideal type and level of care that they require. These risks include:

• Side effects from medications and medical procedures
• Post-surgical complications
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Blood clot
• Allergic reactions to anesthetics
• Pain
• Impairment
• Injury

As several cases that involve geriatric patients are related to accidental falls, geriatric medicine specialist also assesses major risk factors that are listed below to minimise these events that can lead to some form of injuries.

• Blood pressure fluctuations
• Weak muscles
• Lack of flexibility and endurance
• Poor balance and gait
• Slower reflexes
• Sensory difficulties, i.e. not seeing well and not hearing well
• Vision problems, e.g. cataracts and glaucoma

However, many accidents in the homes of elderly patients are also linked to several other seemingly minor factors, such as clutter, loose rugs and the lack of proper care facilities. A geriatric medicine consultation provides general reminders on such issues for the protection of the patient.
Reference:

• Minaker KL. Common clinical sequaelae of aging. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman’s Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2011:chap 24.

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**What is Geriatric Medicine ⁢Consultation: ⁤Overview, Benefits, and Expected⁣ Results**



**Overview**



Geriatric ‌medicine consultation⁤ is ⁤a specialized field​ of medicine that‍ focuses ⁢on the healthcare⁢ needs of older adults. Geriatric medicine specialists are known as geriatricians, ⁢and they⁤ have expertise in managing the complexities of aging,⁣ including age-related diseases, conditions, and social challenges.



**Benefits of Geriatric Medicine Consultation**



* **Comprehensive ⁤Care:** Geriatricians⁢ take a holistic approach to patient care, considering the physical, mental, and social well-being of ⁢older adults.

* **Disease Management:** They⁢ specialize in ⁢treating common age-related conditions such as‍ Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, heart disease, and osteoporosis.

* **Medication Optimization:** Geriatricians assess medication ⁤regimens and make adjustments as needed to optimize effectiveness​ and reduce potential adverse effects in older adults.

* **Functional Assessment:** They evaluate older adults’ abilities to perform daily tasks and recommend interventions to improve independence and quality of ​life.

* **Caregiver Support:** Geriatricians provide ⁢guidance and support‍ to caregivers who are caring for ⁣older adults, addressing challenges ​and identifying ‌resources.

* **Advance Care Planning:** They facilitate⁣ discussions about‌ end-of-life care‍ and assist patients ⁢in making informed decisions ‍about ⁣their future ‌wishes.



**Expected Results**



After a​ geriatric medicine consultation, older adults can expect:



* **Improved Health‌ Outcomes:** Better management of chronic conditions, reduced risk of falls, ‌improved cognitive function, ​and enhanced‍ quality of life.

* **Increased Independence:** Functional ​assessments and interventions help older‍ adults regain or maintain their ⁣independence⁣ and reduce reliance​ on others.

*⁣ **Optimized ⁢Caregiver Experience:** ​Education, support,⁤ and resources ⁢empower caregivers to provide effective and compassionate care.

* ‍**Peace of Mind:** Advance care planning provides⁢ a sense of ⁣control and dignity, allowing older adults to retain their autonomy and wishes even in ⁢the face of future challenges.



**When to Consider a Geriatric Medicine ‌Consultation**



A geriatric medicine consultation is ⁤recommended for older adults who:



*‌ Have multiple ‌chronic conditions or⁤ complex ​medical needs

* Experience functional decline or‍ cognitive changes

* Are at risk for falls or other safety ‌concerns

* Require medication management or changes

* Have ​caregiver support challenges

* Express concerns about their future health and well-being



**Conclusion**



Geriatric medicine consultation is an invaluable service that provides‍ specialized healthcare to older adults, addressing unique ‌medical, functional, and social challenges. By accessing this expertise, older adults⁣ can improve their health outcomes, maintain independence, optimize caregiver⁢ experiences, ⁢and achieve a better quality of life as they age.