4^th International Congress on Geriatrics and Gerontology September 09-10, 2024 London, UK

Alzheimer's disease, common among the elderly, is a progressive neurological disorder affecting memory and daily function. It poses challenges for both individuals and caregivers. Current treatments aim at symptom management and support for improved quality of life. Early detection and intervention are crucial for comprehensive care in later years.

COPD is a common respiratory condition in older adults, marked by airflow limitation due to long-term exposure to irritants like tobacco smoke. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, impacting quality of life. Management involves medication, pulmonary rehab, and lifestyle changes to relieve symptoms and improve lung function. Early diagnosis and comprehensive care are vital for optimizing outcomes and enhancing well-being in elderly individuals with COPD.

Osteoporosis weakens bones, increasing fracture risk, especially in older adults due to decreased bone density. Prevention includes supplements, exercises, fall prevention, and medications. Early detection and proactive management are vital for reducing fracture risk and maintaining bone health in the elderly. 

Hypoglycemia is a medical condition characterized by low blood sugar levels, typically below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). It commonly affects elderly individuals with diabetes on insulin or certain medications. Symptoms vary from shakiness to confusion and seizures. Quick treatment with glucose-rich foods or medication is crucial to prevent complications. Regular monitoring and recognizing symptoms are vital for managing diabetes in the elderly.

Geriatric stroke, occurring in adults aged 65 and above, is influenced by factors like hypertension and diabetes. It can lead to physical disability, cognitive impairment, and higher mortality rates. Prompt recognition and treatment are vital. Rehabilitation aids in restoring function and independence. Preventive measures, including managing risk factors and promoting a healthy lifestyle, are key in reducing stroke incidence and impact in older populations.

Clinical Geriatrics is the medical strength committed solely to giving high quality, patient-centred care for more seasoned grown-ups. More seasoned grown-ups have an interesting set of issues and concerns which geriatric clinicians are prepared to centre upon.

Geriatric care plan includes an evaluation of an older individual's functional status, medical conditions, cognition, nutritional status, psychological state, and social support, as well as a review of the patient's medications.

It essentially focusses on anticipating and treating diseases and conditions commonly found in elderly patients. Aging is inevitable, and geriatric nursing care addresses the unique challenges faced by this population to improve their quality of life.

Healthy aging entails adopting proactive measures to maintain physical, mental, and emotional well-being as individuals grow older. Preventive care plays a pivotal role in this process, encompassing various strategies aimed at averting or delaying the onset of diseases and disabilities associated with aging. By prioritizing preventive care, individuals can enhance their quality of life, independence, and overall longevity.

The Five Pillars of Healthy Aging

• Good nutrition. Good diet plays an important role in promoting a person's overall well-being during his or her senior years.
• Physical activity. Physical activity is just as important for healthy aging.
• Social engagement.
• Mental stimulation.
• Meaningful activities and relationships.

Preventive Care

• Screenings You Need When You're 50+
• Essential Medical Tests After 60
• Avoid Muscle Loss
• Boost Your Immunity
• Protect Your Vision

Geriatric nutrition focuses on dietary needs and strategies tailored to the specific health challenges faced by older adults. It addresses factors such as maintaining adequate nutrient intake, managing chronic conditions, and promoting overall health and well-being in the aging population. By emphasizing proper nutrition, geriatric care aims to support healthy aging, preserve functional independence, and reduce the risk of age-related diseases.

Frailty refers to a state of increased vulnerability to adverse health outcomes due to age-related declines in physical, cognitive, and functional abilities. Older adults affected by frailty are at higher risk of falls, hospitalizations, disability, and mortality. Identifying and addressing frailty through comprehensive assessment and targeted interventions can help improve the quality of life and outcomes for older individuals, promoting healthier aging and greater independence.

Geriatric pharmacology focuses on the study of medication use in older adults, considering factors such as age-related changes in physiology, metabolism, and pharmacokinetics. It aims to optimize drug therapy by addressing the unique needs and vulnerabilities of elderly patients, including minimizing adverse drug reactions, preventing drug interactions, and promoting medication adherence. By tailoring pharmacological treatment to the specific characteristics of older individuals, geriatric pharmacology contributes to safer and more effective healthcare for aging populations.

Mental health in geriatrics addresses the psychological and emotional well-being of older adults. It encompasses the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions prevalent in this population, such as depression, anxiety, dementia, and cognitive impairment. Effective mental health care for older adults involves a holistic approach that considers factors such as social support, life transitions, and comorbid medical conditions. By promoting mental well-being and addressing mental health issues, geriatric mental health services aim to enhance quality of life and functional independence in older individuals.

Polypharmacy, defined as the concurrent use of multiple medications, is particularly prevalent in geriatrics due to the high incidence of chronic illnesses in the elderly population. While it is often necessary to manage multiple health conditions, polypharmacy presents several risks and challenges.

Geriatric nursing specializes in providing comprehensive care to older adults, addressing their unique physical, psychological, and social needs. Geriatric nurses are trained to assess, plan, and manage the healthcare needs of elderly patients, including chronic conditions, medication management, and promoting functional independence. They play a crucial role in promoting healthy aging, preventing complications, and enhancing the overall quality of life for older individuals.

Geriatric rehabilitation aims to restore and preserve independence and quality of life in older adults through a multidisciplinary approach. It addresses physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges with tailored programs including physical, occupational, and speech therapy. By improving mobility, cognition, and well-being, it promotes active aging and enhances overall quality of life.

Geriatric dentistry specializes in caring for the oral health needs of older adults, considering age-related changes. It emphasizes preventive care, treating oral diseases, and managing issues like gum disease and tooth decay common in aging populations. Geriatric dentists provide tailored dental care to promote oral health and overall well-being in later life.

Ageism refers to stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination against individuals or groups based on their age. In the context of geriatrics, ageism often manifests in negative attitudes and behaviors toward older adults, impacting their health, well-being, and access to services.

Geriatric oncology focuses on cancer diagnosis and treatment in older adults. As cancer rates rise with age, this field addresses unique challenges like comorbidities and reduced organ function. Specialists use a multidisciplinary approach, considering overall health and treatment tolerance to personalize care plans. The aim is to optimize treatment effectiveness while minimizing side effects, improving outcomes, and quality of life for elderly cancer patients.

Geriatric psychiatry focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in older adults. It addresses a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, and dementia-related behaviours. Specialists consider medical and cognitive factors, along with social support, to create personalized treatment plans. By promoting mental well-being, geriatric psychiatry enhances the overall health and functioning of older adults.

Dementia affects millions of people and is more common as people grow older (about one-third of all people age 85 or older may have some form of dementia) but it is not a normal part of aging. Many people live into their 90s and beyond without any signs of dementia.