A geriatrician, or geriatric physician, is a primary care doctor who specializes in the aging process. These doctors aim to diagnose, treat and prevent diseases and disabilities common in older adults.
Geriatricians undergo specialized training and certifications to practice geriatric medicine.
Some of the conditions and diseases often addressed by a geriatrician include:
Geriatricians focus not just on their patient’s health, but also on their home and family life, social support, community and living conditions.
Geriatricians often work closely with different types of medical professionals such as:
Geriatricians can treat patients in hospitals, clinics, offices, nursing homes or rehabilitation facilities. Many geriatric doctors may even provide in-home care.
The American Geriatrics Society recommends consulting a geriatrician when:1
There are several benefits to visiting a geriatrician, as opposed to a general practitioner. Depending on your unique health situation, you may want to consider visiting a geriatrician.
Given the fact that the senior population in America is larger than ever – with an estimated 10,000 people turning 65 every day – there is a growing need for geriatricians.2
There are a few different ways to find a geriatrician near you:
You can also contact a licensed insurance agent to find out if there are any Medicare Advantage plans (Medicare Part C) in your area that provide coverage for geriatric services.
Find a Medicare Advantage plan that covers the geriatric care you need
Compare plans nowOr call TTY Users: 711 24/7 to speak with a licensed insurance agent.
This article is for informational purposes only. It is not healthcare advice. Speak to your doctor or healthcare provider about your specific healthcare needs.
1 American Geriatrics Society. About Geriatrics. Retrieved Feb. 2019, from www.americangeriatrics.org/geriatrics-profession/about-geriatrics.
2 Heimlich, R. Baby Boomers Retire. (Dec. 29, 2010). Pew Research Center. Retrieved from www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2010/12/29/baby-boomers-retire.
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