Details of Geriatric Medicine Doctors at Artemis Hospital
Who is a Geriatric Medicine Doctor?
A Geriatric Medicine Doctor, also known as a geriatrician, is a physician who specialises in diagnosing and treating older adults, typically those aged 60 and above. These doctors have advanced training in managing the unique physical,mental and emotional health challenges associated with ageing.
Unlike general physicians, geriatricians focus on:
Memory concerns (including dementia)
Mobility and fall prevention
Multiple chronic illnesses
Medication optimisation (avoiding overmedication)
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Maintaining independence and quality of life
With a holistic, person-centred approach, geriatricians aim to promote healthy, active, and dignified ageing, while reducing hospital visits and enhancing day-to-day wellbeing.
What does a Geriatric Medicine Doctor Do?
Geriatricians offer specialised and comprehensive medical care for older adults, particularly those with multiple or complex medical conditions.
They ensure that every aspect of older adults like physical, mental, and social health is carefully monitored and managed. Here is what a Geriatric Medicine Doctor does:
Conducting comprehensive geriatric assessments that evaluate physical health, cognitive function, emotional well-being, and daily living capabilities. These assessments help develop highly individualised care plans based on the patient’s general condition and lifestyle.
Diagnosing and managing chronic diseases common in ageing populations, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease.
Coordinating interdisciplinary care by working closely with other healthcare professionals, including specialists, nurses, pharmacists, nutritionists, psychologist, physiotherapist and social workers. This collaborative model ensures seamless, integrated care that addresses all facets of a senior's well-being.
Managing medications carefully to prevent adverse drug interactions, reduce unnecessary prescriptions, and ensure medications are effective and safe, a process known as deprescribing when needed.
Providing preventive guidance and lifestyle counselling that promotes healthy ageing - This includes advice on nutrition, exercise, fall prevention, cognitive stimulation, and social engagement to maintain independence for as long as possible.
Supporting families and caregivers, offering education, counselling, and practical resources to help them navigate the complexities of elder care, especially in cases involving cognitive decline or mobility challenges.
In addition, geriatric medicine doctors are highly trained to recognise and treat mental health concerns that may be overlooked or misunderstood in older adults. These include depression, anxiety, and dementia, all of which may present differently in seniors compared to younger patients.
When to Consult a Geriatrician?
Knowing when to consult a geriatrician can make a significant difference in the health and quality of life of older adults. A geriatric consultation typically involves a comprehensive assessment of medical history, functional ability, mental health, and medication review. The geriatrician works closely with the primary care physician and usually involves a multidisciplinary team to create a personalised care plan.
Here are some key signs and symptoms that you should see a geriatrician:
Multiple Chronic Conditions
In case you or a loved one is managing several chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, or high blood pressure, a geriatric doctor can help coordinate care and optimise treatment plans.
Polypharmacy (Multiple Medications)
Taking five or more prescription medications increases the risk of side effects and drug interactions. A geriatrician can review all medications and streamline them for safety and effectiveness.
Unexplained weight loss, persistent weakness, increased fatigue, or sudden changes in mobility are reasons to consult a geriatric care specialist, as these may signal underlying health issues that need prompt attention.
Difficulty remembering important information, confusion, or trouble performing daily tasks could be early signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Early assessment by a geriatrician can help with diagnosis and management.In advance stage it helps the patient as well as the caregiver through multidisciplinary care.
Decline in Daily Functioning
When daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, or walking become challenging, a geriatrician can assess functional status and recommend interventions to maintain independence.
Frequent Falls or Mobility Issues
Recurrent falls, balance problems, or difficulty walking should prompt a consultation, as geriatricians can identify causes and suggest prevention strategies.
If family members or caregivers are feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of care, a geriatrician can provide support, resources, and guidance to ease the burden.
Who Should Consider Seeing a Geriatrician?
Any individual with certain underlying conditions that can be diagnosed and treated by a geriatrician can benefit from the consultation. However, certain adults aged 65 and older with complex health needs, multiple chronic conditions, or functional decline are ideal candidates.
Consider seeing a geriatric doctor if:
There are noticeable memory problems, confusion, or signs of dementia, which need specialised assessment and care.
There’s an increased risk of falls, frailty, or functional decline, making mobility and daily activities more difficult.
What are the Different Conditions Treated by Geriatricians at Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon has some of the best geriatric medicine doctors who specialise in providing comprehensive care for older adults by addressing the unique health challenges associated with ageing. Our team of experienced geriatricians offers personalised treatment plans to manage a wide range of conditions, ensuring optimal health and quality of life for seniors.
Chronic Diseases and Multimorbidity Management
Older adults often experience multiple chronic conditions simultaneously. Our geriatric care specialists are adept at diagnosing and treating health conditions like:
We focus on coordinated care to address these conditions holistically, minimising complications and enhancing general well-being.
Cognitive Health and Dementia Care
Cognitive decline is a significant concern in ageing populations. Our geriatricians provide expert assessment and management for:
Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias
Memory loss and confusion
Cognitive impairments affecting daily functioning
Through personalised care plans, Artemis Hospitals aim to maintain cognitive function and support patients and families in managing these challenges.
Medication Management:
Older adults often take multiple medications, increasing the risk of adverse drug interactions. Our geriatric care specialists conduct thorough medication reviews to identify and reduce unnecessary or harmful medications, prevent drug interactions and side effects and optimize medication regimens for safety and efficacy.
Mobility and Fall Risk Assessment
Maintaining mobility is crucial for independence in older age. Implementing targeted interventions, we help seniors maintain mobility and reduce the risk of falls. Our geriatric team addresses the following:
Balance issues and gait abnormalities
Fall risk factors and prevention strategies
Physical therapy needs to enhance strength and coordination
Nutritional Guidance and Weight Management
Proper nutrition is vital for health maintenance in older adults. We focus on promoting healthy eating habits to support general health and disease management. Our geriatricians provide:
Dietary counselling tailored to individual health needs
Management of weight-related issues, including undernutrition and obesity
Support for chronic conditions through dietary modifications
Emotional and Psychological Support
Ageing can bring about emotional and psychological challenges. The geriatric team at Artemis Hospitals aim to enhance the mental and emotional health of the patients, fostering a supportive environment. Here’s what we offer:
Screening and treatment for depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions
Support for caregivers to manage stress and provide effective care
Counselling services to address emotional well-being
End-of-Life and Palliative Care
For patients with advanced illnesses, our palliative care specialists provide:
Pain and symptom management to improve comfort
End-of-life care planning and support
Family counselling to navigate complex decisions
What Procedures are Performed by a Geriatrician?
Geriatricians at Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon, perform a wide range of specialised evaluations and care procedures designed to support the health, safety, and independence of older adults. Their approach is comprehensive, patient-centred, and focused on improving both quality of life and functional ability.
Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA)
One of the most essential procedures performed by geriatric medicine doctors is the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA). This thorough evaluation covers physical health, cognitive function, emotional well-being, and daily functional abilities. It helps identify medical conditions, memory disorders, mood issues, and social or environmental challenges. The CGA serves as the foundation for creating an individualised care plan that supports both health and independence.
Medication Review and Optimisation
Older adults often take multiple medications for various health issues, increasing the risk of side effects and drug interactions. Geriatricians conduct detailed medication reviews to ensure safe, effective treatment. They may stop unnecessary prescriptions, adjust dosages, or substitute medications in a process known as deprescribing, which helps prevent complications and improves overall health outcomes.
Fall Risk Assessment and Prevention
Falls are a major cause of injury and loss of independence in older adults. Geriatricians evaluate factors such as balance, mobility, muscle strength, and environmental hazards. Based on the findings, they recommend interventions like physiotherapy, mobility aids, strength exercises, or home modifications to minimise fall risks and support safe movement.
Chronic Disease Complication Management
Managing multiple chronic illnesses is a key responsibility of geriatric care doctors. They oversee conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, and heart disease, often in combination. Geriatricians monitor disease progression, prevent complications, and collaborate with other specialists to ensure that treatments are safe, coordinated, and appropriate for the patient’s age and overall health.
Memory and Mental Health Evaluation
Geriatricians are trained to recognise and address cognitive and emotional health issues that are common in ageing. They conduct memory assessments to identify conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or mild cognitive impairment. They also screen for depression and anxiety, which may present differently in seniors. Early intervention and appropriate therapy can greatly improve quality of life.
Nutritional and Functional Assessments
Nutrition and daily function play a vital role in senior health. Geriatricians assess for signs of malnutrition, unintentional weight loss, or vitamin deficiencies. They also evaluate a senior’s ability to perform everyday tasks, such as dressing, bathing, and eating. Based on these assessments, they may recommend dietary adjustments, supplements, or support services to enhance daily living.
Coordination of Rehabilitation and Palliative Care
For seniors recovering from illness or injury, or those with life-limiting conditions, geriatricians coordinate access to rehabilitation, physiotherapy, and palliative care services. They ensure a smooth transition between hospital, home, or long-term care and focus on maximising comfort, mobility, and dignity, especially during the advanced stages of illness.
How Can I Book an Appointment with a Geriatrician at Artemis Hospital in Gurgaon?
To book an appointment with some of the top geriatricians at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 959-928-5476. Appointments can also be scheduled through the online patient portal or by downloading the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available on both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By Dr. Prasun Chatterjee
Chief - Geriatric Medicine
Artemis Hospitals