Geriatric Medicine: Your Complete Guide to Specialised Senior Care in Perth

As we get older, our healthcare needs change. It’s no longer just about the usual check-ups. It’s about addressing specific concerns that come with aging. If you’re looking to make sure that you or an aging loved one gets the best care possible. Understanding geriatric medicine is key.

This simple guide will walk you through what geriatric medicine is. Why it matters and how it can make a difference in the quality of life for older adults.

What Is Geriatric Medicine and Who Is a Geriatrician?

A geriatrician is a medical doctor who specialises in geriatric medicine. Which focuses on the health care of older adults. Unlike other medical specialists who typically concentrate on specific organs or systems. Geriatricians are trained to address the complexities that come with aging. Including multiple chronic conditions, cognitive decline, and other age-related challenges. Their goal is to improve quality of life by addressing these unique needs.

In Australia, geriatric care is essential as our population ages. And many families turn to geriatricians for help when their loved ones face difficulties managing multiple health issues.

Expertise Beyond Standard Medical Care

Geriatricians complete additional training beyond their medical degree, focusing specifically on:

• Memory and brain health.
• Health conditions related to aging.
• Managing medications for older adults.
• Managing multiple health conditions at once.
• Preventing falls and helping with movement.

Geriatricians vs. GPs: What’s the Difference Between GP and Geriatrician?

While general practitioners (GPs) provide great care for a wide range of health concerns. Geriatricians are specialists in the complex health issues faced by older adults. Here are the key differences.

When Should You See a Geriatrician?

You need to see a geriatrician if you or a loved one are experiencing any of the following signs.

Physical Signs

• Multiple chronic conditions that need different medications.
• Trouble with balance or frequent falls.
• Unexplained weight loss or weakness.
• Difficulty doing everyday tasks.

Cognitive and Emotional Signs

• Memory problems or confusion.
• Not socialising or withdrawing from activities.
• Changes in mood, like becoming more irritable or sad.
• Trouble managing medications or keeping up with doctor’s appointments.

How Geriatricians Transform Senior Healthcare

Complete & Detailed Health Assessment

When you visit a geriatrician. They do a detailed check-up that looks at:

• Mental health and how well the brain is functioning.
• Physical health and ongoing medical issues.
• Medications and their possible interactions.
• The risk of falling or mobility issues.
• Support from family and friends.
• Nutrition and diet.

Personalised Care Planning

The geriatrician will create a care plan that fits the needs of the individual:

• Recommend preventive care.
• Help with managing medications.
• Look at ways to improve quality of life.
• They will coordinate care with other doctors.
• Make sure that the person can maintain their independence.

The Geriatric Care Team Approach

Modern geriatric care is not just about one doctor. It’s about a team of specialists working together to provide the best care.

Geriatric Care Team Core Members

1. Geriatrician: Leads the team and oversees medical care.
2. Nurse Practitioners: Provide follow-up care and monitor progress.
3. Physical Therapists: Help with exercises to keep strength and movement.
4. Occupational Therapists: Help with tasks like getting dressed or cooking.
5. Nutritionists: Make sure the person is getting the right nutrition.
6. Social Workers: Find community services and support.

Benefits of Geriatric Care

1. Improved Quality of Life

Geriatric care can significantly improve the overall quality of life for older adults. It helps reduce the need for frequent hospital visits. Allowing seniors to stay at home longer. By focusing on managing chronic health issues.

Geriatric care ensures that conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis are under control. This not only improves physical health. But also allows seniors to maintain their independence for as long as possible.

Additionally, geriatric care promotes social connections by addressing emotional and cognitive health. Which can help prevent isolation. With better mental health outcomes. Seniors can enjoy a higher level of comfort and well-being.

• Reduces the need for frequent hospital visits.
• Helps manage chronic health issues.
• Allows for more independence.
• Strengthens social connections.
• Improves mental health.

2. Family Support

Geriatric care doesn’t only help seniors. It also provides vital support to family members. Caregivers are often faced with difficult decisions. Geriatric care offers guidance on managing the complex needs of older adults. The team can help family members understand different treatment options and make informed care decisions.

It also makes navigating the senior healthcare system easier. By helping families find the right resources and support. Furthermore, the team offers advice on planning for long-term care. Making sure that families feel supported every step of the way.

• Provides education for caregivers.
• Helps with decisions about senior care.
• Makes it easier to navigate senior healthcare.
• Offers support for planning long-term senior care.

3. Medicare Coverage and Costs

The financial side of geriatric care is an important consideration. And understanding how it works can make the process smoother. Medicare typically covers most geriatric services. Which makes it more affordable for families.

For those who are eligible, bulk-billing options can further reduce costs. However, it is often necessary to have a referral from a GP to access geriatric care. Private health insurance can also provide additional coverage for services not covered by Medicare. Giving families peace of mind when it comes to the financial aspect of senior care.

• Medicare covers most services.
• Bulk-billing options are available.
• A referral from a GP might be needed.
• Private health insurance can cover extra costs.

Next Step: Getting Started with Geriatric Care

How to Access Geriatric Care Services in Perth?

Here’s how you can start with geriatric care:

1. Talk to your GP: Let them know what’s going on, and ask if geriatric care might help.
2. Request a Referral: Ask your GP for a referral to a geriatric specialist.
3. Schedule Your Appointment: Once referred, set up an initial consultation.
4. Prepare Your Information: Bring along medical records and a list of medications.
5. Include Family: If possible, have family members with you to be part of the conversation.

Additional Resources for Geriatric Care in Australia

For more information about geriatric care in Australia. Consider visiting the following resources:

• My Aged Care: www.myagedcare.gov.au
• Healthdirect Australia: www.healthdirect.gov.au
• Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission: www.agedcarequality.gov.au

Book Your Appointment with a Geriatrician in Perth

At Main Street Medical Centre Perth, our experienced geriatric specialists are ready to help you or your loved one navigate the challenges of aging with compassion and expertise. Our geriatric care team provides.

• Complete care plans
• Caring and experienced doctors
• Medicare bulk-billing options
• Telehealth services when needed

If you’re noticing health issues that affect your loved one’s daily life. Now is the time to consult a geriatrician. Don’t wait for a crisis to arise. Take action today to improve quality of life.

Book Your Appointment Now

FAQs

1. How do I find a geriatrician in Australia?

You can find a geriatrician by asking your general practitioner (GP) for a referral, searching online through medical directories, or visiting websites like My Aged Care, which provides resources for aged care services in Australia.

2. What services do geriatricians provide?

Geriatricians offer various services including managing chronic illnesses, assessing cognitive health, reviewing medications to prevent interactions, preventing hospitalizations, and providing guidance for future planning regarding healthcare needs.

3. How does Medicare cover visits to a geriatrician?

Medicare covers visits to geriatricians for eligible patients aged 65 and older (or 50 and older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples). Many geriatrician services are bulk-billed, meaning little to no out-of-pocket costs. But it’s essential to confirm specific billing practices with your provider.

4. What are the common signs that my loved one needs to see a geriatrician?

Signs include experiencing multiple chronic conditions, memory loss or confusion, frequent falls, difficulty managing medications, or challenges with daily activities such as cooking or bathing.

5. Can I access telehealth services with a geriatrician?

Yes, many geriatricians offer telehealth services, especially for patients who have mobility issues or live in remote areas. You typically need a referral from your GP and can schedule an appointment for a virtual consultation.

6. What is polypharmacy and why is it a concern for older adults?

Polypharmacy refers to the use of multiple medications by a patient, which is common among older adults. It can lead to harmful side effects and drug interactions. Geriatricians help manage these risks by reviewing and simplifying medication regimens.