This Branch of Medicine is dedicated to the care of the elderly and it is a fast growing subspecialty. As people continue to live longer the elderly population has seen an increase in size all over the world. In order for this population to live more comfortable and productive lives, more attention has to be paid to serving their needs. Some of the following may be of value in the lives of the elderly:
- A Geriatric Professional site visit may be of value to ensure that their home environment is safe. Some insurance plans would pay for visits by a geriatric nurse.
- Elderly persons often heal slowly after sustaining injuries, so it is important to maintain a safe home environment for them. Prevent accidents and injuries by keeping walkways clear and providing good floor lighting to prevent trips and falls.
- If possible provide elderly persons with rooms on the main floor of the home so they don’t have to climb stairs.
- Provide handle-bars and mats in bathrooms to prevent slips and falls. Their balance is not what it used to be so as a result many elderly persons sustain serious injuries from slips on slippery b so on athroom and bathtub floors.
- Provide assistance for them when medications are taken in case they are forgetful, confused or have poor eyesight, etc.
- Have an available list of their medications at Doctor visits and make sure that they don’t run out of their medications. They should be accompanied by a family member or guardian on these doctor visits.
- Mental decline is less likely to occur in individuals who are engaged socially, so encourage involvement in social activities.
- Make sure that their eyes and ears are tested regularly as poor eyesight and hearing may limit their participation in events and their ability to self-care.
- Make sure that they are hydrated. Many elderly persons suffer dehydration because they find it difficult to get water for themselves. Make sure that there is a container with water within their reach.
- Illnesses such as the flu may be stressful for the elderly, so encourage them to obtain seasonal flu-shots
- Regular dental care is very important. They should be able to eat a variety of foods comfortably in order to maintain a proper nutritional status.