When you were a child, your parent probably took you to see a pediatrician for check-ups, vaccinations, and when you were ill. Pediatricians specialize in medicine as it relates to children and also have experience in working with children and their parents. Now that your parent is older, have you thought about whether their regular primary care physician is still the right doctor for them? Did you know that there are doctors who specialize in working with older adults? Doctors who specialize in medicine for senior citizens are called geriatricians and their field of medicine is called geriatrics.
Geriatricians Have Special Training
A geriatrician is a doctor who has pursued extra training in the process of aging and the treatment of older adults. To be board certified in geriatrics, a doctor must first complete a residency program in family medicine or internal medicine. They then complete a year of training in a clinical geriatrics fellowship.
Geriatricians understand the differences in communicating with older adults who may have trouble hearing or who have experienced some cognitive decline. They are also experienced in working with the family caregivers of older adults who are often very involved in the care of the patient.
Why Your Parent May Need a Geriatrician
A geriatrician is an excellent choice for a senior who is frail or who has multiple conditions. They are also a good option if caring for the senior is placing a great deal of stress on family caregivers. Some geriatricians take a holistic approach to treating their patients and may even suggest that your parent work with a geriatric health care team. The team may include nutritionists, social workers, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, pharmacists, and psychiatrists. The team evaluates the health and needs of the senior and works with them and their family caregivers to develop a plan to ensure the senior receives the best possible care.
Tips for Finding the Right Geriatrician
When looking for a geriatrician for your parent, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to make sure that the doctor accepts your parent’s insurance and/or Medicare. You’ll also want to consider the location of the doctor since driving too far may be inconvenient and difficult on your parent.
Your parent’s current doctor may be able to provide a referral to a geriatrician. Another good source of information about geriatricians are your friends and family members who may be able to recommend a doctor they are currently using.
Once you’ve created a short list of geriatricians, make an appointment to meet with one. Ask lots of questions and make sure that both your parent and you are comfortable with the doctor before making a final decision.
If you are considering hiring a professional caregiver in Whitehall PA, contact the caring staff at Extended Family Care of Allentown. Call today at (610) 200-6097.
Sources
https://www.verywell.com/finding-the-best-doctor-for-elderly-mother-2966664
http://www.everydayhealth.com/senior-health/going-to-a-geriatric-specialist.aspx
http://www.nextavenue.org/why-you-may-need-a-geriatrician-even-if-youre-not-old/
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