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Geriatric MedicineFrequently Asked Questions about Geriatrics How is a geriatrics visit different from a regular doctor visit? A geriatrics visit takes more time than most other types of office visits. A geriatrician typically goes over multiple geriatric syndromes and checks things such as memory, mood and balance. Patients will need to bring a list of their medications to review with Dr. El-Ghoneimy. He will have questions regarding topics such as bowel and bladder habits, weight change and appetite. Geriatrics visits will need to be scheduled regularly until all relevant topics have been covered. What are geriatric syndromes? These usually consist of symptoms and signs specific to the geriatric population and may include: frequent falls, dementia, depression, urinary and bowel incontinence, weight loss, appetite and sleep problems, and multiple medications. When would you need to see a geriatrician? Most primary care physicians have some knowledge or training in geriatrics. However, a geriatric patient with multiple medical problems, multiple medications, or with multiple geriatric syndromes can be overwhelming to a primary care physician. In these cases, a geriatric specialist may be required. Is “healthy old age” an oxymoron? People are expected to live long and healthy lives. There is a difference between the normal aging process, which includes some memory lapse, and having a disease such as dementia. Old age is not always accompanied with diseases like dementia, depression or incontinence. |
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