The idea of specialized medical care for elderly patients has been around for at least a century. The specialty of Geriatric Medicine originated in Great Britain, and has spread around the world over the last forty years.
How it all began
In Canada, geriatrics was first recognized as a medical specialty in 1977. To become a geriatrician, a keen medical graduate must first complete three years of residency in internal medicine, then two years of specialized fellowship training.
This training can be completed at most medical schools in this country, though fewer than half of the available training positions are filled in any given year. A year of additional training in care of the elderly can also be pursued after a family medicine residency.
What sets them apart?
Geriatrics is the care of the frail elderly. These are the 15 per cent of elderly patients who suffer from multiple medical conditions, are significantly dependent on others for their care, and often have a limited or overwhelmed social support structure.
These patients represent the most vulnerable and complex part of the aging population. What differentiates a geriatrician is the desire to "embrace the complexity".
What do they do?
The bread and butter of a geriatrician's practice is made up of problems such as falls, confusion, and a decline in basic functions. These problems frequently have explanations to be found and treated. The idea that these patients are "ill because they are ill, not because they are old" is extremely important.
The work of a geriatrician has never been limited to the care of individual patients. Their role has always required education, promotion, and direction of health-care policy. Now more than ever, being creative is high on this list of duties.
New ideas on the horizon
The elderly population is rapidly growing. Current systems of care do not sufficiently meet the needs of every frail elderly patient, and in many cases these systems are already overwhelmed.
New ways of delivering care are necessary.
In the last few years, several geriatricians have joined Horizon Health Network. With their arrival, ideas for new methods of care are taking shape such as specialized multidisciplinary team assessments in outpatient clinics and patients' homes.
If these initiatives are adequately supported and implemented, such innovation will help ensure optimal care for this vulnerable population, which we will inevitably join someday ourselves.
Preventing falls at home
Here are some actions you can take to reduce your risk for falling:
Some medications can make you dizzy or lightheaded and may increase your risk for falls. Talk to your doctor about the medications you are taking.
Wear proper footwear. Shoes, boots and slippers should have good support with non-slip soles and a wide low heel. Avoid the use of loose slippers or stocking feet.
Wear clothing (e.g. pants, housecoat) that does not drag on the floor or catch on furniture or equipment (e.g. walker).
If using a cane, crutches or walker, check the rubber tips and replace them if they are worn.
Wipe spills up immediately to prevent slipping.
Remove or tie up long telephone and electrical cords.
Keep floors and stairs free of clutter. Remove throw rugs, especially with fringes.
Watch out for your pets - don't trip on them.
Have good lighting throughout your home. Use night lights, especially in hallways and stairways.
Do not climb on stools and step ladders.
Install grab bars by the toilet and tub if needed.
Use a raised toilet seat and a bath seat in the shower or tub if needed.
Use a rubber mat inside your tub and a non-skid bathmat beside the tub. Tuck in bedspread corners to prevent tripping.
Do not carry too much at once, especially up and down the stairs.
Ask family and friends to let the phone ring longer to allow you time to answer.
Don't rush for the phone. An answering machine or cordless phone can be helpful.
Exercise - to keep your muscles strong and prevent new weakness and decrease in balance.
When walking outdoors:
Walk on well maintained sidewalks and well lit streets.
Avoid icy surfaces or uneven ground.
Try to walk with someone.
Consider other options - mall walking or indoor track walking.
In the winter months, arrange to have snow and ice cleared from outside steps and walkways. Use salt and sand throughout the winter months.
Did you know?
Falls are the number one cause of injuries in New Brunswick.
Most falls occur in the home while doing usual daily activities.
Your risk for falling increases with age. One third of people aged 65 years and over fall each year.
The good news is that falls can be prevented! There are a number of simple steps you can take in and around your home to help prevent falls and the injuries caused by falling.
http://en.horizonnb.ca/home/information-news/publications/health-information/how-we-care-for-our-elders.aspx
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