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Key takeaways
As we grow older, our health needs can become more complex. Many seniors manage more than 1 health issue at a time, along with daily medications and changing abilities. A geriatrician is a doctor who helps older adults navigate these changes with care, patience and attention to the whole person—not just a single symptom. Understanding what a geriatrician does can help you decide if this type of care is right for you or someone you love.
A geriatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in caring for older adults. These doctors first train in family or internal medicine, then complete extra training focused on aging and senior health. This additional training helps them understand how aging affects the body, mind and daily life.1
It’s common to confuse geriatricians with gerontologists, but they are not the same. A geriatrician treats patients and manages medical care. A gerontologist studies aging but does not provide medical treatment.1 Geriatricians often lead a care team that may include nurses, care coaches, pharmacists and social workers, all working together to support the patient.
Primary care doctor | Geriatrician | Gerontologist | |
Who they are | Doctor trained in family or internal medicine | Primary care doctor with extra training in aging | Professional who studies aging |
Medical doctor? | Yes | Yes | Usually not |
Treats patients? | Yes, adults of all ages | Yes, mostly adults 65+ | No |
Best for | Routine care and checkups | Several health conditions, many medications, memory or fall concerns | Research, aging programs and social services |
Seeing a geriatrician can be especially helpful when health needs begin to overlap. If someone is managing 3 or more ongoing conditions—like
Medication management is another common reason to seek geriatric care. Many seniors take several medications each day, which can sometimes cause side effects or problems when mixed. A geriatrician carefully reviews medications and looks for ways to simplify them when possible.2
Signs such as changes in memory, balance, strength, forgetfulness, confusion, frequent falls or feeling weak can impact daily life and may be signs that specialized care is needed. Geriatric care can also play an important role during and after a hospital stay, helping patients recover safely and return home with the right support.
When meeting a new doctor, asking questions can help you feel confident in your choice. You may want to ask about their training and whether they are board‑certified in geriatric medicine. It’s also helpful to understand how they work with other doctors you may already see and how they keep everyone informed.
Be sure to ask how family members or caregivers are involved in care decisions. Support from loved ones can make a big difference. You can also ask about access—such as home visits, telehealth appointments or help after hours if something urgent comes up. Finally, ask about their approach to care and how they support personal goals, like staying independent or avoiding treatments that don’t fit your wishes.
At Conviva, senior‑focused care is built around you. Our doctors spend up to 50% more one‑on‑one time with patients, so questions are answered and concerns are heard. Care is organized through a team that includes care coaches and referral specialists, helping everything feel clear and connected.
Conviva also focuses on managing ongoing conditions with personalized plans that support daily life and independence. With same‑day appointments and 24/7 on‑call provider access, patients have support whenever they need it. You never have to navigate your health alone.