Geriatrics: Foundations and Diseases

What is Geriatric Medicine?

Geriatrics is the medical discipline devoted to the care of seniors, with particular emphasis on conditions associated with the aging process. Although this branch of medicine has existed since the 19th century, it was only officially recognized as a specialty at the beginning of the 21st century. This recognition is largely attributed to the increase in life expectancy and the growing number of elderly people, factors that have necessitated an evolution in the medical care of elders.

“The main objective of geriatrics is to maintain or restore the autonomy of elderly people.”

This medical specialty focuses on preventing loss of autonomy and adapting the daily life of patients with neurological, cardiovascular, psychiatric diseases, and other forms of dementia.

Geriatricians, or doctors specialized in geriatrics, are healthcare professionals who have completed at least three additional years of training to specialize in treating certain age-related pathologies.

The Influence of Geriatrics on Seniors’ Lives

For individuals who have become dependent or lost part of their autonomy, admission to a geriatric service may be considered. Care is holistic, aimed at assessing the degree of dependency and identifying new symptoms or diseases.

“The objective is to treat the patient while preserving their autonomy and quality of life.”

Among the pathologies and risks commonly treated in geriatrics are:

• Falls
• Cardio-respiratory insufficiencies
• Cognitive disorders
• Malnutrition
• Sleep disorders
• Sensory impairments

For a complete assessment, the geriatrician may perform various examinations, such as blood pressure measurement, psychological tests, and hearing and vision analyses.

When Should a Geriatric Consultation Be Considered?

If you are of a certain age and present one of the symptoms or pathologies mentioned above, a geriatric consultation can be beneficial. During this consultation, various examinations may be performed, including scans, blood pressure measurements, and cardiac ultrasounds. Based on the results, appropriate treatment may be prescribed, including nursing care or personal assistance services.

The Practice of Geriatrics in Belgium

In Belgium, many hospitals have geriatric services specially designed to accommodate elderly people in situations of dependency. These services are equipped to meet the specific needs of seniors and are composed of a multidisciplinary team including geriatricians, nurses, physiotherapists, and psychologists.

Geriatrics is a growing medical branch, particularly due to the aging population. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the autonomy and quality of life of elderly people. In Belgium, geriatric care is increasingly focused on home care, which underscores the importance of this medical specialty.