Geriatricians specialise in caring for older adults with complex medical needs. Some patients visit because they have several chronic illnesses, while others need help with memory loss, frequent falls, reduced mobility, or difficulty managing daily activities. After a comprehensive assessment, the geriatrician develops a personalised care plan that supports healthy ageing and independence.
Frailty
Frailty is a medical condition that makes older adults more vulnerable to illness, injury, and slower recovery. Early assessment helps identify risk factors, allowing treatment to improve strength, mobility, and overall wellbeing.
Dementia and Memory Problems
Memory loss is not always a normal part of ageing. Dementia affects thinking, memory, and daily functioning. Early diagnosis helps patients and families plan treatment, manage symptoms, and access appropriate support.
Falls and Balance Disorders
Falls become more common with age and may lead to serious injuries such as fractures or head injuries. Geriatricians assess the causes of falls and recommend strategies to improve balance, strength, and safety.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis weakens the bones and increases the risk of fractures, particularly in older adults. Early diagnosis, medication, nutrition, and exercise can help reduce fracture risk and maintain bone health.
Urinary Incontinence
Loss of bladder control is common among older adults but is not an inevitable part of ageing. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include lifestyle changes, medication, pelvic floor exercises, or referral for specialist care.
Multiple Chronic Medical Conditions
Many older adults live with conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, arthritis, and kidney disease. Geriatricians coordinate care to manage these conditions while reducing medication-related problems and maintaining quality of life.
Mobility Problems
Reduced mobility may result from muscle weakness, arthritis, neurological conditions, or previous injuries. Geriatricians help identify the cause and work with rehabilitation teams to improve movement and independence.
Delirium
Delirium is a sudden change in mental state that causes confusion and reduced awareness. It often develops during illness or after surgery and requires prompt medical assessment to identify and treat the underlying cause.
When Should You See a Geriatrician?
You should consider seeing a geriatrician if you or a loved one experience:
- Frequent falls or poor balance
- Memory loss or confusion
- Difficulty walking or reduced mobility
- Multiple chronic medical conditions
- Unexplained weight loss or frailty
- Urinary incontinence
- Difficulty managing medications
- Reduced ability to perform daily activities
- Repeated hospital admissions
- Concerns about healthy ageing
Early assessment can help older adults stay independent for longer, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of complications associated with ageing.
Ready to Find a Geriatrician?
Explore PRIME's featured geriatricians below to learn about their qualifications, clinical expertise, clinic locations, and patient education resources. You can also browse related articles and videos to better understand healthy ageing, age-related conditions, and available treatment options before your consultation.
