Overview

Geriatrics is a specialized area that focuses on the healthcare and well-being of elders. It is a multidisciplinary approach to addressing the unique medical, social, and psychological needs of seniors as they age. Geriatric healthcare providers, often called geriatricians, are specially trained to care for the elderly and promote healthy ageing. As people age, they often face a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional changes that require specialized care and attention. Geriatric medicine is designed to address these age-related concerns and help older adults maintain their independence and quality of life.

At Parvathy Multispeciality Hospital, we focus on optimizing older individuals' functional abilities and managing chronic medical conditions that are common in the elderly population.

Common Areas of Expertise

Geriatricians address a wide array of healthcare concerns specific to older adults, including but not limited to:
  • Chronic Disease Management: Managing and coordinating care for chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and osteoarthritis.
  • Cognitive Health: Assessing and managing cognitive disorders such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and mild cognitive impairment.
  • Falls and Balance: Evaluating and addressing factors that contribute to falls and balance problems in older adults.
  • Medication Management: Reviewing and optimizing medication regimens to minimize side effects and drug interactions.
  • Pain Management: Addressing chronic pain and age-related conditions that may cause discomfort.
  • End-of-Life Care: Providing guidance on advance care planning, palliative care, and end-of-life decisions.
  • Incontinence: Diagnosing and managing issues related to urinary and fecal incontinence.
  • Nutritional Health: Promoting good nutrition and addressing malnutrition or eating difficulties in the elderly.
  • Geriatric Syndromes: Addressing issues like frailty, sarcopenia, and delirium, which are common in older adults.

Treatment and Care

Geriatric medicine encompasses a wide range of diagnostic and treatment modalities tailored to the specific healthcare needs of older adults. Treatment and care may include:
  • Medical Evaluation: Comprehensive assessments to diagnose and manage the patient's healthcare needs.
  • Medication Review: Careful assessment of the patient's medication routine to optimize drug therapies and reduce side effects.
  • Pain Management: Tailored approaches to address chronic pain and discomfort.
  • Cognitive Assessments: Evaluations to assess cognitive function and diagnose cognitive disorders.
  • Nutritional Support: Providing guidance on maintaining a balanced diet and addressing malnutrition.
  • Rehabilitation Services: Referring patients to Physiotherapy and Parvathy Homecare when necessary to enhance functional abilities.
  • Advanced Care Planning: Helping patients and families make informed decisions regarding end-of-life care.

When to Consult a Doctor ?

It is advisable to consult a geriatrician at Parvathy Multispeciality Hospital when:
  • You or your loved one is an older adult with complex healthcare needs or age-related concerns.
  • You require specialized care to address the unique medical, cognitive, and functional issues associated with aging.
  • You seek guidance on managing chronic conditions, cognitive disorders, or other geriatric health concerns.
  • You are interested in improving the quality of life for older adults and promoting healthy aging.
  • You need assistance with advance care planning, palliative care, or end-of-life decisions for an older family member.

Meet The Geriatrics Specialist

DR. VISHAL H

MBBS, DNB Internal Medicine, CCEBDM
Consultant General Medicine & Diabetology
Dr. Vishal H, is a compassionate, humble, and dedicated physician, specialising in the fields of Diabetology and Infectious Disease. His journey as a medical professional is characterized by a strong commitment to patient care and a genuine passion for his areas of expertise.

 

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DR. SAI VIGNESHVAR C.N.

MBBS, MD ( GENERAL MEDICINE)

Consultant internal medicine and diabetology

Saivigneshvar C.N stands as a Consultant in Internal Medicine and Diabetology. Driven by a commitment to holistic healthcare, he combines his extensive knowledge in general medicine with specialized expertise in diabetology to provide comprehensive medical care.


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Call +91 98412 98412 for medical emergencies or 044 2238 2248 / +91 98848 99091 to book an appointment.

General (FAQ) For Geriatrics

Geriatric age refers to the stage of life associated with old age or the elderly population. While there's no specific age that universally defines geriatric status, it typically includes individuals who are 65 years old and older. This age group often faces unique health challenges related to aging, requiring specialized medical care and attention.
Geriatrics is the branch of medicine that focuses on the health and care of elderly individuals. It involves the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of health issues associated with aging. Geriatric medicine addresses the unique needs of older adults, including managing chronic conditions, promoting wellness, and enhancing the overall quality of life in the later stages.
  • Elderly: A broad term referring to individuals who are old or in their later years of life. It doesn't necessarily imply any specific medical or healthcare focus.
  • Geriatric: Relates specifically to the medical and healthcare aspects of aging. It involves the study and practice of providing healthcare to the elderly, emphasizing their unique health challenges.
Geriatric patients are individuals who are part of the elderly population, typically aged 65 and older. Geriatric patients often require specialized medical care that considers the physiological, psychological, and social aspects associated with aging.
Geriatric care includes a range of services tailored to the needs of older adults. Examples include:
  • Comprehensive health assessments
  • Chronic disease management (e.g., diabetes, hypertension)
  • Medication management
  • Fall prevention programs
  • Memory care for conditions like dementia
  • Palliative and end-of-life care
  • Physical therapy for mobility and strength
A geriatric doctor, also known as a geriatrician, is a medical doctor who specializes in the healthcare of older adults. Geriatricians have training in internal or family medicine but focus on the unique health concerns of the elderly, offering specialized care to promote healthy aging.
The 5 pillars of geriatric medicine typically encompass a holistic approach to the healthcare of older adults:
  • Comprehensive Assessment: Thorough evaluation of physical, mental, and social well-being.
  • Multidisciplinary Care: Involving various healthcare professionals to address diverse needs.
  • Patient and Caregiver Education: Providing information to patients and their caregivers about managing health conditions.
  • Medication Management: Ensuring appropriate use and monitoring of medications.
  • Preventive Care: Focusing on strategies to prevent and manage health issues associated with aging.
These pillars collectively support the goal of enhancing the overall health and quality of life for geriatric patients.