Older persons often suffer
from multiple chronic illnesses and, because of
changes associated with ageing, may present atypically
when they fall ill. Apart from the interaction
of co-existent illnesses with declining physiological
reserves that are to be expected with ageing,
older persons may also suffer from the effects
of multiple medications interacting with each
other. The resultant clinical manifestations of
illnesses in older persons are often referred
to as "geriatric syndromes".
Geriatric Syndromes : These
include the following:
Apart from the often complex
presentations of illnesses in older persons, the
impact of such illnesses may result in impaired
functional status and a loss of physical independence
that lead to increased stress for the patients
and their family members. Effective care for older
persons thus requires a coordinated approach that
often involves the doctors, nurses, allied health
personnel (physiotherapists, occupational therapists,
speech therapists and dietitians) as well as the
patients and their loved ones.
Why
Geriatric Medicine? Read more. |
