GERIATRIC MEDICINE

If you are getting older and having more health problems, you may want to consider meeting with a geriatrician—a doctor who specializes in geriatric medicine. People over the age of 85 are the fastest growing segment of the population. This specialty is increasing in importance as the population ages and as people live longer lives. It is no longer rare for individuals to live to be 100 years old.

What Is a Geriatrician?
A geriatrician is a physician who specializes in caring for adults age 65 and older. Much like a pediatrician focuses on the unique needs of children, a geriatrician is trained to understand and manage the medical, emotional, and social needs that come with aging.
Geriatricians complete a residency in either Internal Medicine or Family Medicine, followed by an additional one- to two-year fellowship in geriatric medicine. They are typically board-certified and have advanced expertise in the complex conditions that often affect older adults.

Why See a Geriatrician?
Geriatricians have specialized training in issues related to aging, including:
* Memory loss and cognitive decline
* Arthritis and osteoporosis
* Mobility challenges and fall risk
* Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias

But caring for older adults goes far beyond treating physical symptoms. Geriatricians recognize how medical conditions can affect an individual’s emotional well-being, social connections, and overall quality of life—and how these factors can, in turn, affect health.

Many seniors assume that feeling unwell is simply part of getting older, but aging itself does not cause disease. Symptoms may be related to treatable conditions, illnesses, or injuries. A geriatrician can help identify the true cause and develop a personalized care plan.

A Whole-Person Approach
Geriatric care involves understanding each patient’s full story. A geriatrician looks at lifestyle, family dynamics, community support, and complete medical history—not just the symptoms of the moment. This comprehensive approach helps older adults stay healthy, active, and independent for as long as possible.

Dr. Vis Susarla  
Dr. Vis Susarla is board-certified in geriatric medicine and has more than 15 years of experience caring for older adults, and obtained a recertification in 2013.