As we age, our healthcare needs change. While a general practitioner may handle most medical concerns, older adults sometimes need specialized care that focuses on the unique challenges of aging. That’s where geriatricians come in.

But what exactly is a geriatrician, and how do you know if it’s time to see one? We’ll answer these questions, explore what geriatric medicine involves, and guide you in finding the right physician for your needs.

Geriatric doctors, or geriatricians, are doctors who specialize in the care of older adults. They typically focus on patients aged 65 and older.¹ Their training includes medical school with a residency in internal or family medicine, and additional fellowship training in geriatric medicine.

Geriatricians are experts in managing multiple chronic conditions, medication interactions, and age-related health challenges. Health concerns treated by geriatricians include:

• Memory problems, including dementia or Alzheimer’s disease
• Mobility and balance issues
• Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis

It’s easy to confuse geriatricians with gerontologists, but they have different roles in senior care. While a geriatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in senior healthcare, a gerontologist is a professional (not always a doctor) who studies the aging process.² Instead of treating age-related conditions, a gerontologist’s role is to research and educate.

Knowing when you should see a geriatrician depends on your individual health needs.³ While there’s no set age, certain signs may indicate it’s time to consider one:

• Difficulty managing chronic conditions: If you’re struggling to keep multiple chronic health issues under control, such as diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis, a geriatrician can provide comprehensive management strategies.
• Frequent medication adjustments or side effects: Seniors often take several medications, which can lead to unwanted interactions. If you’re experiencing adverse reactions or having difficulty managing your prescriptions, a geriatrician can review and optimize your medication regime.
• Memory or cognitive concerns: If you notice memory lapses, confusion, or other cognitive changes, a geriatrician can evaluate you for conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease and recommend appropriate care plans.
• Frailty or reduced mobility: Signs like frequent falls, muscle weakness, or difficulty walking may indicate the need for specialized care. Geriatricians assess mobility issues, coordinate physical therapy, and recommend assistive devices to improve balance, strength, and independence.
• Caregiver strain or family challenges: If caregiving responsibilities are overwhelming or family dynamics are complex, geriatricians can help develop a care plan that includes support services for both the senior and their caregivers.

If you think it might be time to start seeing a geriatrician, talk to your primary care physician. They can help you assess your current situation and take the next steps.

Finding the right geriatrician involves careful consideration to ensure the doctor meets your needs and preferences. Here are some tips to get started.

Your primary care physician is often the best starting point when searching for a geriatrician. They can recommend specialists they trust and who are experts in senior care. A referral also helps ensure that your medical records are shared between providers, making your transition to specialized care smoother. 

Look into reliable directories to find geriatricians in your area. Many health insurance providers have online directories that list in-network specialists. Additionally, organizations like the American Geriatrics Society offer search tools to locate qualified geriatric healthcare professionals. These resources can save time and provide a vetted list of opportunities. 

Practical factors, such as location and office hours, play a big role in choosing a doctor. A conveniently located office ensures that you won’t face transportation challenges. Flexible office hours can accommodate your schedule, making it easier to attend appointments without added stress.

The first visit with a healthcare professional can reveal a lot about their approach to patient care. Take note of whether the doctor listens attentively, answers your questions thoroughly, and shows empathy toward your concerns. Good communication is essential for building a strong doctor-patient relationship.

Ask friends, family members, or caregivers for recommendations based on their experiences. Local senior centers or community groups may also have insights into trusted geriatricians in your area. Personal recommendations often provide an added layer of confidence when making your choice. 

Once you’ve chosen a geriatrician, preparation can make your first visit more productive. Before your appointment, write down your medical history, including allergies and current medications. List any health concerns or symptoms you have.

During your appointment, share your goals for your care. Ask questions about medications, treatments, or lifestyle changes. Here are some common questions seniors might ask a geriatrician:

• How can I stay independent as I age?
• Are there any alternative treatments for my condition(s)?
• What should I do to prevent future health issues?

Learn more about additional topics and questions you can bring up with your doctor.

Geriatricians offer tailored care that can significantly improve quality of life for seniors.⁴ They can help patients with everything from medication management to providing support to loved ones in a caregiver role.

Geriatricians assess all aspects of a senior’s health—physical, mental, and emotional—to create individualized care strategies. This ensures that treatment aligns with each person’s unique needs and goals.

Older adults often take multiple medications, increasing the risk of side effects or unwanted interactions. Geriatricians carefully review prescriptions, adjust dosages, and recommend alternatives to enhance safety and effectiveness.

By addressing physical decline through therapy referrals, assistive devices, and targeted exercises, geriatricians help seniors stay active and reduce the risk of injuries.

Geriatricians provide valuable guidance to family members and caregivers, offering resources for stress management and support networks to ease the caregiving journey.

Geriatricians play a vital role in helping older adults navigate the complexities of aging. Whether you’re dealing with multiple chronic conditions or looking for preventative care, these specialists can provide the support you need. By understanding what a geriatrician does and knowing when to seek their help, you’re taking an important step toward healthier aging.

Sources:

1. “What Is a Geriatrician?” Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/geriatrician.
2. “Gerontologist vs. Geriatrician.” Rachman Medical Group, https://www.rachmanmedical.com/gerontologist-vs-geriatrician.
3. “Specialists in Aging: Do You Need a Geriatrician?” Johns Hopkins Medicine, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/specialists-in-aging-do-you-need-a-geriatrician.
4. “Benefits of Having a Geriatrician on Your Health Care Team.” UPMC HealthBeat, 2 May. 2023, https://share.upmc.com/2020/10/benefits-of-geriatricians/.