GERIATRIC MEDICINE UPDATE

Abstract

The elderly in the United States are living longer due to recent advances in technology. However, many of them are faced with the reality of living with multiple and chronic diseases. Recent research indicates that some geriatric processes are not a normal consequence of aging and can be prevented with early intervention. Other disease processes may present atypically. This includes common problems such as stroke, arthritis, cancer, and endocrine disorders. Multiple and chronic disease presentation often necessitates multiple drug prescribing. This short course provides a brief overview of four topics in geriatric medicine of relevance to the geriatric psychiatrist. Dr. Cefalu's presentations illustrate the need for the holistic diagnostic approach to the geriatric patient, including both their medical and psychiatric needs. Dr. Cefalu discusses comprehensive geriatric assessment and common medical conditions that may first manifest themselves by psychiatric symptoms. Dr. Nusbaum discusses the geriatric oncology patient and the geriatric rehabilitation patient. The care of these patients exemplifies situations where both the patient and family may experience significant distress in dealing with the patient's medical condition.