What is Geriatric (Elderly) Care?

Cropped shot of a senior woman holding hands with a nurse

As the population ages, geriatric care is becoming an increasingly important part of health care. Turkey has taken great strides to offer state-of-the-art geriatric services that provide highly competent and specialized medical and nursing staff to meet the needs of its growing elderly population. Its long history of providing quality healthcare along with progressive policies in this field is paving the way for improved care for seniors throughout Europe and beyond.

In this blog article, we’ll go over all there is to know about Geriatric Care, who provides it, and why Turkey is one of the best destinations in the world to receive comprehensive geriatric care, so you can make an informed decision about your own or a loved one’s future healthcare requirements.

What is geriatric care?

Geriatric care refers to the medical and health-related care that is provided to older adults. It encompasses a wide range of services, including preventative care, treatment of medical conditions, and management of chronic health problems, as well as support for daily activities and addressing age-related changes in physical, emotional, and cognitive abilities. Geriatric care also includes rehabilitation and support for independent living, as well as end-of-life care. The goal of geriatric care is to maintain or improve the health and well-being of older adults while ensuring they receive the highest quality of care and support throughout their aging journey.

Who provides geriatric care?

A team of healthcare experts with specific training and skill in the care of older persons provides geriatric care. These specialists collaborate to provide comprehensive care and assistance that is tailored to the specific needs of each patient.

Geriatricians: They are medical doctors who specialize in the care of older adults. They are trained in diagnosing and treating medical conditions, and in developing and managing comprehensive care plans for their patients.

Gerontological nurse practitioners: They are registered nurses with advanced training in geriatrics. They provide primary care to older adults and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to coordinate and manage their patients’ care.

Physician assistants: They are healthcare professionals who practice under the supervision of a physician. They play a key role in the delivery of geriatric care, by conducting physical exams, ordering and interpreting tests, and helping to develop care plans.

Social workers: They are trained in helping individuals and families navigate the challenges of aging. They provide emotional support, counseling, and assistance with issues such as financial planning, community resources, and end-of-life planning.

Consultant pharmacists: They are experts in the use of medications in older adults. They provide advice on safe and effective drug use and help prevent adverse drug reactions.

Nutritionists: They guide diet and nutrition and help to prevent and manage age-related dietary issues, such as malnutrition and dehydration.

Occupational therapists: They help older adults maintain or improve their ability to perform daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming.

Speech and hearing specialists: They help to diagnose and treat speech and hearing problems, which are common in older adults.

Psychiatrists: They are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, which are common in older adults.

Psychologists: They provide therapy and counseling for individuals and families coping with the challenges of aging.

These professionals work together to provide the best possible care and support for older adults, ensuring that their health and well-being are maintained and that they can live with dignity and independence for as long as possible.

When do you have to see a geriatrician?

There is no set age at which one should consult a geriatrician. Individual health needs and the possibility of age-related health concerns should be considered before deciding whether to consult a geriatrician. The most likely candidates for seeing a geriatrician are older persons who are experiencing age-related changes in their health or who have numerous chronic health issues.

However, some older adults may choose to see a geriatrician earlier in life, to receive preventive care and to establish a relationship with a healthcare professional who is familiar with the unique needs of older adults. In addition, individuals who are caring for an aging loved one, or who are interested in planning for their aging process, may choose to see a geriatrician to receive guidance and support.

In general, it is recommended that older adults have an annual comprehensive health assessment, including a comprehensive medical history, physical examination, and screening tests. Based on the results of these evaluations, a geriatrician can provide individualized recommendations for care and support, and help to coordinate the care provided by other healthcare professionals.

Ultimately, the decision to see a geriatrician should be based on individual needs and the goal of ensuring the best possible health and well-being as we age. If you have any concerns about your health or the health of a loved one, it is important to speak with your primary care physician, who can help you determine the best course of action, including a referral to a geriatrician if needed.

What are the benefits of traveling to Turkey for geriatric care?

Turkey is an excellent choice for senior citizens seeking excellent geriatric care. This thriving country, with a long history of medical expertise and cutting-edge technology, is positioned to provide the best standard of care possible to older persons. Turkey is the optimal option for people seeking the best in geriatric care, thanks to its well-equipped medical facilities staffed by compassionate and knowledgeable healthcare personnel, as well as its patient-centered approach and inexpensive pricing.

Whether you need preventive care, treatment for chronic conditions, rehabilitation services, or end-of-life care, Turkey has got you covered. With its commitment to medical innovation, its medical facilities are equipped with the latest diagnostic and treatment tools, from cutting-edge diagnostic imaging equipment to minimally invasive surgical techniques. But what truly sets Turkey apart is its compassionate and patient-centered approach, where the goal is to help older adults maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life.

And for those who may be concerned about language barriers, Turkey has got you covered there too. With a strong tradition of hospitality and support for non-Turkish-speaking patients, including English-speaking staff and translation services, Turkey makes it easy for older adults from all over the world to receive the care they need.

So why settle for anything less than the best? With Turkey’s unmatched combination of quality medical care, advanced technologies, and compassionate care, it’s no wonder that it’s becoming one of the most popular destinations for geriatric care. If you or a loved one is seeking the ultimate in geriatric care, look no further than Turkey.

What are the most important factors to consider when looking for geriatric care in Turkey?

There are various significant elements to consider when seeking geriatric care in Turkey To begin, be certain that the medical facility you select is accredited and staffed by highly qualified and experienced healthcare personnel. Second, assess the breadth of services provided, such as preventive care, chronic condition treatment, rehabilitation treatments, and end-of-life care.

Another important factor is cost and whether the care is covered by your insurance or if there are any affordable options available. Location and accessibility are also important considerations, as you’ll want to ensure that the facility is easily accessible and close to your home or other support networks.

Language support and cultural sensitivity are also key considerations when looking for geriatric care in Turkey. You’ll want to ensure that the medical staff can effectively communicate with you or your loved one and that the facility is culturally sensitive to your needs and beliefs. Finally, you may also want to consider the reputation and experience of the facility, as well as any patient reviews or testimonials.

By considering these important factors, you can ensure that you choose the best geriatric care facility in Turkey for you or your loved one.

Conclusion

Turkey offers some of the best geriatric care options in the world. With top-notch diagnostic and treatment tools, a patient-centered approach, and language support services, Turkey is an excellent destination for older adults looking for quality care. To ensure that you choose the right facility for your needs, it’s important to consider factors such as accreditation, services offered, cost, location, accessibility, language support and cultural sensitivity. Epcy can provide you with valuable resources on choosing the right geriatric care facility in Turkey.