Geriatric medicine is targeted towards treating conditions more common in older adults. A clutch of variables make treating older adults different from their younger counterparts, including multiple medicines (polypharmacy), vague presentation of symptoms and difficulty ascribing causes when multiple health conditions exist simultaneously.

The elderly are also more susceptible to age-related diseases which younger people typically don’t develop. While hypertension might be a hereditary condition, issues like cardiovascular disease, ischaemic heart disease, urinary incontinence, osteoporosis, vascular dementia, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, arthritis, etc. are far more common among older adults.

Managing Geriatric Diseases

Addressing age-related medical conditions entails a holistic, multidisciplinary approach focusing on medical management, lifestyle adjustments, therapy and a supportive environment.

Dementia: While medications like cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine can help manage symptoms, they can’t cure the disease. A daily routine must be established to reduce confusion and anxiety. Communication should be slow and clear, using simple sentences, maintaining eye contact and using gestures. Positive activities such as painting, gardening or music therapy help focus on capabilities and provide emotional outlets. The home environment should be modified by removing tripping hazards and ensuring safety.
Osteoporosis: Medications such as bisphosphonates and hormone therapies are often advised to slow bone loss or promote bone formation. Anti-inflammatory drugs help manage joint pain. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake through diet or supplements is essential. Exercises like walking, jogging and tai chi help build bone strength and improve balance. Physical therapy aids in postural correction and proper body mechanics to relieve back and knee pain.
Stroke: Preventive measures include controlling hypertension and other vascular risk factors like diabetes and obesity through a healthy diet, exercise and medication. Rehabilitation begins early, often in the hospital, and may include physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. Cognitive exercises, art therapy and support groups are essential for recovery.
Parkinson’s Disease: Medications such as levodopa, beta-blockers or anticonvulsants help manage tremors. In severe cases, deep brain stimulation surgery may be considered. Occupational therapy, stress-management techniques like meditation, breathing exercises and yoga, along with regular physical activity such as tai chi, can improve quality of life.
Incontinence: Medical consultation is necessary to determine the cause, which may include urinary tract infections, medication side-effects or chronic conditions. Treatment may involve lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises, medication or medical devices, depending on severity.
Falls and Decreased Mobility: Preventive steps include removing tripping hazards like loose rugs and cords, ensuring adequate lighting and installing handrails in staircases and bathrooms. Strength and balance exercises help improve stability and reduce fall risk. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in restoring strength and flexibility.
Palliative Care: This approach focuses on relieving symptoms and stress associated with serious illness to improve quality of life. It involves a multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, social workers and specialists who work alongside the primary care physician to provide comprehensive support.
Mental Health Issues: Social isolation, loneliness, grief, depression and anxiety are common among older adults. Participation in community activities or support groups should be encouraged. Individual or family counselling provides coping mechanisms, while medical consultation is important for managing depression and anxiety, which can affect cognitive function.

At Narayana RN Tagore Hospital, Mukundapur, we have a team of experienced healthcare professionals specialising in geriatric care, ensuring your loved ones receive the best possible treatment.