Advances in medicine and technology have increased the average life expectancy of the general population. As a result, about a quarter of the population are now 65 years of age or older.
Geriatric medicine is the specialised approach to providing primary healthcare to elderly individuals. There are several factors, which highlight the need for a multidisciplinary approach to managing the health issues that typically increase with age.
At Bethany Medical Centre we can help in the management of chronic diseases and functional problems including:
Annual health checks are recommended. These assessments comprise a physical, mental and functional evaluation and relate to normal daily activities.
Assessment and identification of any depression or memory impairment is also part of a regular Aged Care health assessment.
Often elderly patients are taking multiple drug therapies, this can make the elderly more susceptible to adverse drug reactions.
Certain diagnostic tests are quite uncomfortable and may be associated with additional risk in the older population. Patient may be referred to other specialists, depending on their clinical conditions.
A care plan will be recommended where a patient presents with a chronic medical condition.That is a medical condition that has persisted for at least 6 months.
Our doctors would review your history and devise an individualised plan for managing the treatment of your problem to optimise your outcome and to improve your quality of life.
These Care Plans are designed for best practice and can involve other team members outside the practice.
Heart disease is common in middle aged and elderly patients, at Bethany Medical Centre we encourage heart checks as part of your health management.
You may not be aware you have risk factors of heart disease early enough. Often there are no symptoms, so it is important to get your doctor to check your risks frequently, to ensure your heart is healthy.
Where there are indications of heart disease we may recommend one of the following cardiac diagnostic processes:
Before any of the above tests are recommended, our doctors will likely perform a physical examination including a blood pressure test, a review of your current medications and they will ask about your personal and family medical history.
Older patients are advised to have regular assessments for vascular disease. Where a condition exists our doctors can guide your through your various management options.
The assessment is designed to help understand the presenting problem, but also detailed enough to understand the full health situation.
Where there are indications of vascular disease we may recommend one of the following diagnostic examinations:
Before any of the above tests are recommended, our doctors will likely perform a physical examination including a blood pressure test, a review of your current medications and they will ask about your personal and family medical history.
Home safety for the elderly can be managed, below are some recommendations.
As part of your general health we recommend annual visits for general checks. We also strongly recommending annual check ups for:
Bowel Cancer Screening is recommended by the Cancer Council every two years for those over 50.
Arthritis is a debilitating chronic condition that is very common in elderly patients.
Our doctors keep up to date with the latest developments of the condition including providing:
At Bethany Medical Centre we are here to help with advice, treatment and/or referrals to trained professionals.