What is geriatrics and how important is the role of a geriatrician?
In simple words, geriatrics is a branch of medicine which prevents and treats diseases or disabilities in older people by adopting various methods of health promotion.
When it comes to older people, it is quite likely that they will react to the disease in a different manner as compared to young individuals. Here comes the prime role of a geriatrician. Geriatric doctor south FL, is specially trained to manage these multiple and unique health concerns in elderly, by developing specially designed plans and addressing their special health care needs.
Who needs to see a geriatric specialist?
There may be varying degrees and disabilities as one attains 65 years of age. Geriatric doctors south FL possess unique training and qualifications to handle frailest of the older patients with complicated medical and social problems regardless of their age. In short, any patient above 65, suffering from number of diseases or disability with or without cognitive disturbances must consult a geriatric doctor.
What should be done for appointment preparation?
Any patient seeking a consultation with geriatric doctor south FL, must prepare a basic plan in order to make most of your appointment. Following steps can be helpful keeping in mind about the patient’s situation and complexity.
1) Arrange all medical records which can be made available to the physician for review
Includes prescribed drugs, herbal medications, vitamins and other supplements along with a list of other doctors you visit for additional ailments and your insurance cards etc.
2) Make a priority of your health concerns
Discuss about any newly emerged symptom, any treatment or drug bothering you, any side effects of the current medications and anything you want to share with your doctor.
3) Copies of other documents
Carrying a copy of your discharge summaries, recent hospitalizations, summary of primary care physician or any information about recently conducted special tests.
4) Make sure the doctor is audible and visible to you
Take your time in interpretation and understanding in order to not miss out on anything. This is possible only if correct glasses and hearing aid is used properly.
5) Never go alone for the consultation
A company of family member or a friend is most beneficial. There are more chances of remembering both the problems associated with you as well as doctor’s instructions given to you.
6) Summarize your doctor about recent developments
Positive or negative, update the doctor about whatever you have experienced in your last visits and any changes in your weight, sleep, appetite or energy levels.
Does good communication matter?
It most certainly does. Communication is the most important part after you get started with your geriatric doctor south FL. Health has a great impact on your other parts of life and hence a good doctor patient relationship is the key to receive best health care needs. Discuss in depth and whenever the instructions are not clear, keep asking the doctor to explain, he will only be happy to oblige.
