Geriatric Medicine in Plano
The number one complaint we hear from our older adult patients is that they want to stay limber, healthy, and active. As your primary care doctor, I’m here to help you do just that. We understand the unique healthcare needs of aging individuals. Just as you would seek the expertise of a pediatrician for your young children, it’s essential to recognize that as people age, their medical needs change.
At Better Health Primary Care, we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to the specific requirements of older adults. “As we age, our bodies change,” and our goal is to ensure that these changes are managed effectively and that you continue to enjoy a healthy and fulfilling life.
Understanding Geriatric Medicine:
Geriatrics, also referred to as geriatric medicine, is a specialized field that focuses on addressing the distinct healthcare needs of older individuals. Our objective is to promote overall wellness by preventing, diagnosing, and managing illnesses in the mature adult population.
Older adults will benefit greatly from seeing a geriatrician. We pay closer attention to health concerns that matter most as you age, such as staying strong, maintaining a healthy appetite, and avoiding potentially risky medications.
If you’re seeking a geriatrician for yourself or a loved one, look no further than Better Heath Primary Care.
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Common Geriatric Conditions:
While this is not an exhaustive list, some of the most prevalent chronic ailments affecting older adults include:
Arthritis
A common age-related chronic disease causing joint pain and inflammation, with osteoarthritis being a leading cause of chronic pain and disability in older adults.
Cancer
There are over 200 different forms of cancer, including prostate, breast, and lung cancer, characterized by abnormal cell growth.
Kidney Disease
Resulting from various conditions such as kidney infections, high blood pressure, and diabetes, and potentially leading to kidney failure.
Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Chronic bronchitis, often associated with smoking, is a prominent condition affecting the lungs and airways.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s
These conditions lead to memory and cognition problems, including memory loss and difficulties with verbal expression, among others.
Diabetes
While it can occur at any age, diabetes is frequently observed in older adults and necessitates lifelong management.
Osteoporosis
A condition characterized by reduced bone density, often unnoticed until a fracture or fall occurs.
Stroke
Interruption of essential blood flow to the brain, potentially causing permanent disability or life-threatening consequences.
Who Should Seek A Geriatrician?
The decision to consult a geriatrician isn’t solely based on age but rather on the specific needs of the patient and the availability of caregiving resources. Geriatric care can be beneficial if:
- You’re dealing with multiple health problems.
- Treatment for one condition is affecting another.
- You’re experiencing functional deterioration or physical frailty.
- You have a condition related to aging, such as incontinence, osteoporosis, or dementia.
- You’re taking multiple medications, especially if they’re causing side effects that affect your well-being.
What is Included in Geriatric Care?
Geriatric care management is a holistic approach that combines healthcare, psychological support, and additional services to address the unique needs of older adults.
Therefore, a personalized care plan is created after a thorough evaluation, continuously reviewed and adjusted as needed. Our professional Geriatric Medicine Doctors assist individuals and families by:
- Conducts thorough evaluations of the physical, mental, and functional status of older patients.
- Manages and coordinates care for chronic conditions commonly affecting older individuals, such as diabetes, arthritis, hypertension, and osteoporosis.
- Reviews and optimizes medication regimens, considering potential interactions, side effects, and the overall impact on the patient’s health.
- Emphasizes preventive measures and health promotion to maintain optimal well-being in older adults.
- Recommends vaccinations, screenings, and lifestyle modifications for disease prevention.
- Focuses on maintaining and improving the mobility and functionality of older adults, addressing issues related to balance, strength, and coordination.
- Addresses nutritional needs and challenges commonly faced by older individuals, including issues related to malnutrition or inadequate dietary intake.
Your Trusted Geriatric Medicine Doctor in Plano
At Better Health, we are your trusted geriatrics specialists in Plano. We are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults by providing personalized and comprehensive care that addresses their unique needs. Our professional and friendly team is here to support you on your journey towards a healthier and happier life as you age gracefully.