Why age-friendly care matters for adults 65+

Let’s face it: Getting older comes with its own set of challenges. That’s why having the right kind of care, tailored specifically for adults 65 and older, makes a big difference. This type of care, called geriatric or “age-friendly” medicine, is designed to keep you healthy, happy, and thriving as you age. It's not just about treating sickness; it's about supporting your overall well-being — physical, emotional, and social.

Just like children see a pediatrician, older adults need a healthcare provider who understands their unique needs. Whether you're active and healthy or dealing with multiple health issues, a geriatric doctor or gerontologist is trained to help you age well.

Who should see an age-friendly provider?

Some people think geriatric care is only for frail or sick older adults, but that’s not true! If you're 65 or older, an age-friendly specialist can help, regardless of your health status or independence level. It’s not just about managing health problems — it’s about preventing them, promoting healthy aging, and helping you live your best life.

What happens as we age?

As you get older, your body changes, and sometimes that means facing multiple health conditions like diabetes, arthritis, joint pain or heart disease. These conditions can interact in complicated ways, making them harder to manage. For example, arthritis or joint pain might make it more difficult to exercise, which could affect your ability to control your diabetes.

As we age, our bodies can also respond differently to medications. You might be more sensitive to certain drugs or have a harder time sticking to treatment plans. In addition, you might face complications from medical procedures. Even changes in brain function affect overall health. This is why age-friendly care is so important — it helps manage these changes in a way that works best for you. These complexities highlight the need for care that goes beyond what most of us have come to expect from our primary care providers such as annual exams, flu shots, and sick visits. Instead, age-friendly care should support your total health and well-being, which goes above and beyond the focus of most primary care practices.

How age-friendly experts can help

Clinicians who specialize in geriatrics or gerontology are experts in aging. They know how to handle the challenges that come with getting older, like managing multiple health conditions and figuring out the right balance of medications. These providers stay with you over time, getting to know you and spotting potential problems early. 

They also look at more than just your health — they take your goals, values, and lifestyle into account when making care plans. And, they look at your mental health and emotional well-being as well as what other things might be needed to help you live and age well. Maybe you don’t have a ride to the doctor’s office. After getting home from the hospital, you might need help with things at home – personal care, meals, physical therapy, and more. Even things like finding specialists, answering insurance questions or appealing a claims denial are part of your care needs. Age-friendly providers can support all of this and more, including working with other healthcare professionals to make sure all aspects of your health are covered.

What makes age-friendly care different?

Age-friendly care goes beyond regular doctor visits. It’s about improving your quality of life, not just treating illnesses. A framework called the “4Ms” helps to guide this type of care:

• What matters most: Making decisions based on what’s important to you.
  
  
• Medication: Making sure you’re on the right medications in the right amounts, and avoiding unnecessary or harmful side effects.
  
  
• Mentation: Focusing on brain health, whether it’s preventing or treating conditions such as dementia and depression.
  
  
• Mobility: Keeping you active and independent by preventing falls and helping you stay strong.
  
  

Why you should see a geriatric-focused provider

If you’re 65 or older, seeing a geriatric-focused provider can make a big difference. They are experts in navigating the ups and downs of aging and will work with you to create a care plan that fits your life. Plus, they don’t just focus on your health conditions — they look at the whole picture, making sure all your needs are met.

In short, age-friendly care is key to helping older adults stay healthy, independent, and living well. It’s not just about treating illnesses; it’s about helping you live the life you want as you age. So, if you’re 65 or older, finding a provider who focuses on this phase of life could be the most important step you take for your health and well-being.

What are you doing to live well and thrive?

Good health is one of the most important things in life, but your needs change as you grow older. Patina can help. We’re a medical practice that focuses specifically on adults 65+. We take a highly personalized and comprehensive approach that supports your total health and well-being – no matter your health status or goals. You’ll enjoy proactive care that goes beyond annual exams and sick visits, helping you manage conditions and stay healthy, coordinate with specialists, navigate care, and more. All through your own dedicated care team that’s always there for you. And, Patina can serve as your primary care provider or work alongside your existing doctor. Enjoy the same great benefits – no extra cost!

To learn more, call us at 855-478-8310 or complete the form below.