Geriatrics
What is geriatrics?
Geriatrics is the branch of medicine specializing in care for older adults. It focuses on patient health and wellness, as well as the management of conditions affecting the aging population. The geriatric medical field has a specific emphasis on whole-person care and aims to optimize independence and quality of life.
What is a geriatrician?
A geriatrician is a physician who specializes in geriatric medicine. A geriatrician typically has completed a medical residency in internal medicine or family medicine, as well as a fellowship in geriatrics. Geriatric fellowship provides a physician with specialized training in medical conditions that affect older people, as well as communication skills, coordination of multidisciplinary care teams, and transitions of care across different healthcare settings.
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For more information about geriatric medicine, go to https://www.ama-assn.org/specialty/geriatric-medicine-specialty-description
Why is Geriatrics important?
The field of geriatrics is dedicated to serving the unique needs of older adults. Many health professionals receive little to no training on how to effectively manage the complex care of our seniors. Geriatricians typically spend more time with each patient and help patients and families navigate many age-related issues. They can improve patient and family satisfaction, patient function and independence, and overall quality of life.
Statistics on Aging
Our population is aging, and people are living longer than ever before. The number of older adults in the United States has tripled since 1950, and that number will continue to rise. The US Census Bureau estimates that by 2030, one in five Americans will be 65 or older. Additionally, the number of people aged 85 or older is growing each year. It is estimated that by 2050, 18.6 million Americans (or 4.8% of the population) will be 85 or older.
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For more information about statistics on aging, visit https://www.un.org/development/desa/publications/world-population-prospects-2019-highlights.html