Journal of Aging and Geriatric Psychiatry

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Mini Review - Journal of Aging and Geriatric Psychiatry (2023) Volume 7, Issue 3

Comprehensive care for geriatric giants: Multidisciplinary approaches to elderly health.

Sreedhar Aital*

Department of Geriatric Medicine, Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Caerphilly, Wales, UK

*Corresponding Author:
Sreedhar Aital
Department of Geriatric Medicine
Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr
Aneurin Bevan University Health Board
Caerphilly, Wales, UK
E-mail: sreedhar.a@hotmail.co.uk

Received: 05-May-2023, Manuscript No. AAAGP-23-99332; Editor assigned: 08-May-2023, PreQC No. AAAGP-23-99332 (PQ); Reviewed: 22-May-2023, QC No. AAAGP-23-99332; Revised: 24-May-2023, Manuscript No. AAAGP-23-99332 (R); Published: 31-May-2023, DOI: 10.35841/aaagp-7.3.150

Citation: Aital S. Comprehensive care for geriatric giants: Multidisciplinary approaches to elderly health. J Age Geriat Psych. 2023; 7(3):150

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Keywords

Geriatric giants, Psychologists, Alzheimer's disease.

Introduction

As the global population ages, the healthcare needs of older adults become increasingly complex. Geriatric giants, a term used to describe common age-related health conditions, such as frailty, falls, cognitive impairment, and incontinence, pose significant challenges to the well-being and independence of elderly individuals. Addressing these giants requires a multidisciplinary approach that integrates various healthcare disciplines and emphasizes comprehensive care [1]. In this article, we will explore the importance of multidisciplinary approaches in providing comprehensive care for geriatric giants and discuss some key strategies for promoting the health and well-being of older adults.

Understanding geriatric giants

Geriatric giants encompass a range of health conditions that are more prevalent in older adults. These conditions often have overlapping causes and consequences, making a multidisciplinary approach essential for effective management [1]. The following are some common geriatric giants:

Frailty: Frailty refers to a state of increased vulnerability to stressors due to age-related declines in physiological reserves. It is characterized by weakness, decreased endurance, unintentional weight loss, and decreased physical activity. A multidisciplinary team, including geriatricians, physiotherapists, and nutritionists, can collaborate to assess and address the various components of frailty.

Falls: Falls are a major concern for older adults and can lead to serious injuries and a loss of independence. A multidisciplinary team involving geriatricians, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and pharmacists can work together to assess fall risk factors, implement preventive measures, and promote safe mobility.

Cognitive impairment: Cognitive decline, including conditions like dementia and Alzheimer's disease, affects a significant number of older adults. A comprehensive approach involving geriatricians, neurologists, psychologists, and occupational therapists is crucial for accurate diagnosis, management, and support for both the individual and their caregivers.

Incontinence: Urinary and fecal incontinence are common among the elderly and can significantly impact their quality of life. A multidisciplinary team consisting of urologists, geriatricians, nurses, and physiotherapists can collaborate to identify and treat the underlying causes and develop strategies to manage incontinence effectively.

The role of multidisciplinary approaches

Multidisciplinary approaches involve the collaboration of healthcare professionals from different disciplines to provide holistic care that addresses the complex needs of older adults. These approaches recognize that geriatric giants often have multifactorial causes, and addressing them requires a comprehensive evaluation and intervention plan. By leveraging the expertise of various disciplines, multidisciplinary teams can provide a more holistic understanding of a patient's condition and develop personalized treatment strategies.

Key strategies for comprehensive care

Comprehensive assessment: A thorough assessment, encompassing physical, cognitive, functional, and psychosocial domains, is essential for identifying the underlying factors contributing to geriatric giants. This assessment can be carried out by a multidisciplinary team working in collaboration.

Care coordination: Effective care coordination ensures seamless communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals involved in an older adult's care. Regular meetings, shared care plans, and a designated care coordinator can facilitate efficient teamwork and enhance the continuity of care.

Individualized treatment plans: Geriatric giants are diverse in their manifestations, and treatment approaches should be tailored to meet individual needs. Multidisciplinary teams can develop personalized treatment plans that incorporate medical interventions, rehabilitation, assistive devices, psychological support, and lifestyle modifications.

Health promotion and education: Multidisciplinary teams play a crucial role in promoting healthy aging and educating older adults, their families, and caregivers about preventive measures, self-care strategies, and available community resources.

Caregiver support: Geriatric giants often require significant support from caregivers. Multidisciplinary teams can provide education, training, and emotional support to caregivers, helping them cope with the challenges associated with caring for older adults.

Conclusion

Comprehensive care for geriatric giants necessitates a multidisciplinary approach that recognizes the multifaceted nature of these health conditions. By leveraging the expertise of healthcare professionals from various disciplines, older adults can receive holistic care that addresses their physical, cognitive, functional, and psychosocial needs. Multidisciplinary teams have the potential to improve outcomes, enhance quality of life, and promote healthy aging for older adults. As the population continues to age, it is essential to invest in multidisciplinary approaches to ensure comprehensive care for the growing number of older adults facing geriatric giants.

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