What is the full meaning of geriatric?
Geriatric:
Geriatric is an adjective that describes the medical monitoring, investigation and care of the old or ageing people. It includes a number of healthcare-related topics, such as the prevention, identification and treatment of illnesses and ailments that afflict senior citizens. The terms “geron” and “iatros,” which in Greek indicate “old man” and “physician” or “healer,” respectively, are the roots of the word “geriatric.” In this sense, it refers to the specialised medical sector that focuses on the distinct requirements and difficulties that elderly people encounter.
Because of the ageing population all over the world geriatric care is a crucial component of healthcare. People go through physiological and functional changes as they age, which might make them more susceptible to certain illnesses. The goal of geriatric medicine is to treat these age-related changes and offer complete healthcare to enhance older people’s quality of life.
To satisfy the physical, mental, and social needs of older persons, healthcare professionals in multidisciplinary teams including geriatricians, geriatric nurses, and other team members collaborate. They approach patient treatment holistically, taking into account the patient’s entire health as well as any specific medical issues. To improve health outcomes, geriatric care frequently combines medical, social, and psychological therapies.
A wide spectrum of medical disorders that are more common in older persons are covered by the area of geriatrics. Several typical ailments include:
Chronic diseases:
Age-related disorders such diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, heart disease, and dementia are increasingly common in older persons. Through pharmaceutical treatment, lifestyle changes, and routine monitoring, geriatric care focuses on controlling these disorders.
Alzheimers:
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are two common cognitive illnesses in elderly persons. In geriatric care, cognitive function is evaluated, patients and their carers are given support and education, and methods to enhance cognitive health and quality of life are put into practise.
Older persons are more likely to experience falls and mobility concerns, which can result in fractures and decreased independence. In order to avoid falls and maintain mobility, geriatric care involves fall risk assessments, balancing training, physical therapy and assistive equipment.
Taking numerous drugs increases the risk of side effects and drug interactions among older persons, who frequently do so. In order to reduce side effects and guarantee the safe use of pharmaceuticals, geriatric care focuses on evaluating and enhancing medication regimens.
Polypharmacy:
Polypharmacy is the simultaneous use of many drugs, which is prevalent among older persons who have several chronic health issues. To increase drug safety and adherence, geriatric care comprises rationalizing pharmaceutical usage, getting rid of unneeded prescriptions, and taking potential interactions into account.
Palliative and end-of-life care:
Geriatric care understands the value of giving older persons with life-limiting illnesses comfort, support, and dignity. The goals of palliative and end-of-life care are to control discomfort, offer emotional support, and make sure that people transition peacefully and comfortably.
Geriatric care places a strong emphasis on preventative interventions such as immunizations, health exams, and health promotion. To create individualised care plans that take into account each older person’s specific requirements, preferences, and aspirations, geriatricians and other healthcare professionals collaborate closely with older people and their families.
Hospitals and clinics are not the only settings for geriatric care. It encompasses a range of environments, including home care, assisted living communities, nursing homes and rehab institutions. Social workers, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, nutritionists and other specialists who support the general wellbeing of senior citizens may also be involved in geriatric services.
Geriatric refers to the medical treatment and study of elderly people, with an emphasis on their particular healthcare requirements. The goal of geriatrics is to promote healthy ageing, prevent and treat age-related illnesses, and improve older people’s general wellbeing.
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