Geriatrics Medicine Overview

Geriatrics Medicine

• Geriatrics is the branch of general medicine focusing on the clinical, preventative, and social aspects of illness in older adults.
• It addresses high morbidity rates in older adults.
• Disease presentation differs in older people, often with a slower response to treatment.
• Special medical skills are needed to support ill and disabled elderly.
• The goal is to restore individuals to maximum ability and independent living at home.

Why Geriatric Medicine?

• The "Geriatric Imperative" is driven by a growing elderly population and unmet healthcare needs.
• Increasing elderly population results in an increased need for geriatric care.
• Significant unmet healthcare needs for the aging population.

Age-Associated Factors

• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes
• Arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Cerebrovascular disease
• Alzheimer's disease
• Chronic respiratory disease
• Cancers
• Depression

Alzheimer's Disease

• Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia.
• It accounts for 50-60% of all dementia cases.
• Risk of dementia increases with age, with a doubling of incidence in each five-year age group over 65.
• Among individuals over 80, one in five are likely to be affected, compared to only 1% of those aged 65.

Healthy Aging Life Style Modifications

• Diet and nutrition
• Exercise
• Weight management
• Smoking cessation
• Alcohol moderation
• Social activities

Determinants of Active Aging (WHO)

• Active aging is influenced by social determinants, physical environment, personal determinants, economic determinants, health and social services, culture, and behavioural determinants.
• This model highlights the interconnectedness of factors impacting aging.

Education and Training

• There's a global need to enhance educational opportunities in geriatrics and gerontology for healthcare professionals.
• Increased training for professionals working with older adults is necessary.
• Training on health and older persons for the social service sector is also important.

Preventive Health Care in Elderly

• Primary Prevention: focusing on healthy habits, managing coronary disease risk factors, immunizations, injury prevention, and osteoporosis prevention.

Secondary Prevention

• Secondary prevention focuses on screening, and managing nutrition-related anemias, fall risk, and syphilis with a focus on prevention of stroke.

Tertiary Prevention

• Rehabilitation and caregiver support are key strategies for tertiary prevention.

This quiz covers the essential aspects of geriatrics medicine, highlighting its focus on old age and associated healthcare needs. Participants will explore common diseases in the elderly and understand the importance of specialized care for this population. Gain insights into the challenges faced in treating older adults and the goal of maintaining their independence.