Geriatric Care

Overview

What is Geriatric Medicine?

Geriatric medicine is specialised and fully dedicated to looking after the health of older adults. A geriatric medicine consultant, who is also referred to as a geriatric specialist, doesn’t only cover a single organ system. They look into the overall health of the whole person and understand the complex interplay between ageing, multiple chronic conditions, medication,s and functional ability.

Moving beyond simply treating diseases, it looks at optimising overall well-being, independence, and quality of life for older individuals. A little different from traditional internal medicine, which addresses specific illnesses, geriatric medicine fuses a complete picture of an individual’s health. This covers physical, cognitive, psychological and social circumstances. A holistic approach like this is fundamental to providing effective elderly care that respects their unique needs and goals as individuals.

The Scope of Geriatric Care

Geriatric medicine is a practice defined by its attention to syndromes and conditions that show up later on in life. Because they are multifaceted, they don’t necessarily fit neatly into a single disease category. Core to the specialty is the management of frailty, a state of increased vulnerability to stressors. It also focuses on syndromes like polypharmacy, which is the use of multiple medications, falls and instability, urinary incontinence, delirium and cognitive impairment, including dementia. Furthermore, geriatric medicine doctors are experts in managing multiple coexisting chronic conditions all at once, such as heart failure, diabetes and arthritis. Coordination is key across this function, to avoid contradictory treatments and prioritise a patient’s individual functional goals.

Care can be significantly enhanced depending on the time patients seek the expertise of a geriatric specialist. If patients or their loved ones are experiencing unexplained changes in function such as increased frailty or frequent falls, we recommend starting the geriatric care journey. Another obvious sign would be a noticeable decline in the ability to manage daily tasks like dressing or managing medications.

A review would be advisable when an older adult is taking multiple prescription drugs, which would typically be five or more, to assess for interactions and simplify regimens. Noticing signs of memory loss or confusion beyond simple forgetfulness should never be ignored as early evaluation is crucial. The involvement of a geriatric medicine specialist is beneficial to ensure a safe and supported recovery plan for those navigating significant transitions, such as requiring additional needs after discharge from the hospital.

Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) is the foundation of diagnosis across geriatric medicine. It goes far beyond standard diagnostics using a meticulous, multi-dimensional process. It begins with an extensive investigation into medical history, social circumstances and personal goals. A detailed medication review is foundational and not optional. Evaluating core domains, it assesses physical mobility and balance, cognitive function, nutritional status, mood and psychological well-being and sensory impairments. A structured approach like this allows geriatric medicine doctors to identify not just diseases, but reversible contributors to decline. This way, they create targeted and person-centred management plans.

  • Frailty and Sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss)
  • Cognitive Disorders including like Alzheimer’s and Dementia
  • Gait Disorders, Falls and Osteoporosis
  • Polypharmacy and Medication Optimisation
  • Management of Multiple Chronic Conditions
  • Urinary Incontinence
  • Delirium
  • Nutritional Deficiencies and Weight Loss
  • Chronic Pain Management
  • Advance Care Planning and Palliative Care Needs

Rooted in dignity and compassion, we use evidence-based practices to approach our elderly care practice across the UAE. Beginning with the foundational Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment, we map out a clear, individualised care pathway. Proactive medication reconciliation and deprescribing is a cornerstone of our service where we safely streamline prescriptions to reduce side effects and interactions. We are also strong advocates for and coordinate targeted rehabilitation. This covers physiotherapy for strength and balance and occupational therapy for daily living skills.

We provide ongoing support for both the patient and their family caregivers for conditions like dementia. Working seamlessly across the NMC network, our geriatric specialists collaborate closely with cardiologists, neurologists, orthopaedics, and others to ensure cohesive care. Our service is designed to support healthy ageing and maximise independence, whether patients are seeking comprehensive elderly care across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, and Al Ain. No matter the reason, we are committed to being a trusted partner in the well-being of older adults.

Our team consists of consultant physicians who are specifically trained and accredited in the subspecialty of geriatric medicine. They carry a deep understanding of the cultural and social context of ageing in the region. Supported by a dedicated multidisciplinary team, patients will receive care from specialist nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and dietitians.

Recognised for their patience, exceptional communication skills, our consultants have the ability to translate complex medical situations into clear, manageable plans. They ensure that care aligns with personal values and preferences, acting as a support system for both patients and their families. Our specialists offer expert, compassionate guidance tailored to the nuanced needs of older adulthood, helping all those searching for experienced geriatric medicine doctors near them across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah and Al Ain within the NMC network.

FAQs

Find the Answer to Your Medical Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

A geriatrician is a general physician. The difference is that a geriatric specialist has additional, specialised training and qualifications in the healthcare of older adults, but both can manage disease. This covers the complex interactions of multiple conditions, medication management in ageing bodies and syndromes like frailty, falls and dementia.
Not all forgetfulness is dementia. Medication side effects, depression, thyroid problems or vitamin deficiencies can all contribute and they’re all treatable. A thorough assessment will be conducted to determine the cause and provide an accurate diagnosis and management plan.
There is no specific age. Needs are usually the drivers. Typically, it would begin when a person in their 70s or 80s, mostly if they develop multiple health issues or have complex care needs. A 75-year-old who is fit may not require one. A 65-year-old who is frail and has several conditions on the other hand, might benefit greatly from an assessment.
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