Geriatrics

What is a geriatrician?

A geriatrician is a medical doctor who has subspecialised in the care of older adults. Our geriatricians bring a wealth of experience in a variety of aspects related to aged care, including management of frailty and prevention of falls, age-related medical conditions such as dementia, and maintenance of quality of life into our patients’ older years. 

What do geriatricians do? 

Geriatricians are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage all health conditions relating to older age, including functional, medical, and social wellbeing. They often do this as part of a multidisciplinary team with other medical specialists and allied health professionals. In addition to caring for older adults, they may manage younger adults with the early onset of age-related conditions.

In addition to other aspects of geriatric care, our geriatricians commonly:

• Provide general health assessments for older adults, including physical, cognitive, and emotional health
• Manage chronic conditions, including osteoporosis, dementia, and the effects of stroke
• Prescribe and optimise medications to minimise side effects and drug interactions
• Assess and manage functional problems, including frailty and falls
• Provide advice and strategies to prevent future health problems
• Help older patients to improve and maintain their independence

Our geriatricians are highly regarded in their field and have a variety of specialised interests, including falls prevention, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease. 

Reasons to see a geriatrician

We are involved in the care of older adults who have varying needs. You may have been referred to our geriatricians because your primary healthcare provider has concerns about your cognition, function and mobility, chronic condition, or emotional and social wellbeing. 

Common reasons to see our geriatricians include:

• A history of falls and functional impairment
• Multiple chronic conditions requiring coordinated care and medication optimisation 
• Symptoms of cognitive decline, such as memory loss or confusion
• Management of health conditions associated with ageing: Parkinson’s disease, Stroke, Arthritis, Osteoporosis, Urinary incontinence, Dementia
• Mental or social health concerns: Depression and anxiety, Social withdrawal

Do I need a referral to see a geriatrician?

Yes, a valid referral from your GP is needed to access a Medicare rebate. It also facilitates both the referring doctor and your geriatrician in working together to provide you with the best care.

Meet Our Geriatricians