Geriatric Nursing Care: What is involved in the care of our older folks?
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Geriatric care, also known as geriatrics, is a specialized branch of healthcare focused on addressing the unique medical, social, and psychological needs of older adults, typically those aged 65 and older. Geriatric care aims to enhance the overall quality of life for elderly individuals, promote healthy aging, and manage the complex health issues that often accompany aging.
See how ICI's Basic nursing program (CNA) here in Chicago can help you better approach this population in terms of care. See why many students choose our program as a prerequisite for physician assistant, medicine, and nursing programs here in Chicago, Illinois.
Here are some key aspects and components of Geriatric care:
Teamwork
Multidisciplinary Approach: Geriatric care involves a team of healthcare professionals, including geriatricians (physicians specializing in the care of older adults), nurses, social workers, physical and occupational therapists, pharmacists, and other specialists. This team works collaboratively to provide comprehensive care tailored to the individual's specific needs. It's important to familiarize yourself with the different specialties that may be involved in the care of this population. Our CNA classes in Chicago gives an overview of how specialties in the industry approach care.
Assessment
Comprehensive Assessment: Geriatric assessments are thorough evaluations that take into account not only the medical conditions but also functional, cognitive, emotional, and social aspects of an older person's life. This assessment helps identify health issues, functional limitations, and social support systems..
Managing Chronic Conditions
Chronic Disease Management: Many older adults have chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and dementia. Geriatric care focuses on managing these conditions effectively, optimizing medications, and preventing complications.
Managing Medications
Medication Management: Polypharmacy (the use of multiple medications) is common among older adults. Geriatric care professionals closely monitor and manage medications to minimize adverse effects, interactions, and unnecessary prescriptions.
Preventing Fall Risk
Falls Prevention: Falls are a significant concern for older adults, as they can lead to serious injuries. Geriatric care includes assessing an individual's risk of falling and implementing preventive measures such as physical therapy and home modifications.
Memory
Cognitive Health: Geriatric care addresses cognitive health issues, including dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Diagnosis, treatment, and support for both patients and their caregivers are essential components of care.
Diet
Nutrition and Weight Management: Proper nutrition is vital for older adults to maintain their health and vitality. Geriatric care may involve dietary assessments, counseling, and recommendations to ensure seniors are receiving adequate nutrition.
Mental & Emotional Health
Social and Emotional Support: Loneliness and depression can be common among older adults, especially those who live alone or have lost loved ones. Geriatric care teams provide emotional support and may connect patients with community resources and support groups.
Palliative and End-of-Life Care
Geriatric care also encompasses palliative care, which focuses on improving the quality of life for individuals with serious illnesses, and end-of-life care, which ensures that the wishes and comfort of older adults are respected as they approach the end of their lives.
Care Coordination
Coordinating care between various healthcare providers, specialists, and services is crucial in geriatric care to ensure that all aspects of an older person's health and well-being are addressed.
Long-Term Care Planning
Geriatric care professionals help older adults and their families make decisions about long-term care options, including assisted living, nursing homes, or in-home care, based on individual needs and preferences.
Overall, geriatric care is designed to promote healthy aging, enhance the quality of life, and provide compassionate and comprehensive medical and social support to older adults as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of later life. It recognizes the diverse and evolving needs of the aging population and seeks to address them holistically. Sign up for our CNA classes in Chicago, Illinois for more information regarding our geriatric training, and clinical rotation. We have online CNA class available. Give us a call today!!
