There’s a big disparity in the selection pool when it comes to doctors that specialize in senior care. As of 2021, there were only about 7,300 U.S. based physicians that specialized in geriatric care, according to one survey. To put it in comparison, there were 60,000 pediatricians in the U.S. during that same timeframe.
This comes at a time when the number of seniors is larger than ever. It is predicted that in the next couple decades, there will be more people over the age of 65 than there will be under the age of 18 for the first time ever.
There are a number of reasons why this field of medicine isn’t growing like it should. However, awareness is the first step toward helping. Hopefully, as the senior population grows there will be more people attracted to this line of medicine.
A doctor that specializes in caring for seniors can do a lot for an elderly individual. Although all doctors have a lot of training that allows them to be qualified to practice medicine, a doctor that specializes in geriatric care has more training and experience than a general practitioner and has more knowledge to bring to the table. It might be the difference between average medical care and superb care as you age. Research backs this up. According to multiple studies, a doctor that specializes in geriatric care is able to provide better care for an elderly individual than a general practitioner. This takes things like relationships and personal knowledge into account, too.
But because there are so few of these doctors out there, it might not be easy to track one down. If you’re curious about the help that a geriatric specialist can provide for your family, reach out to your primary care physician. They will be able to steer you in the right direction. If your PCP isn’t sure where to direct you, your community’s major hospital will be able to direct you better.
The sooner you start, the better. Waiting lists, like it or not, are a reality for a lot of the U.S. right now. It doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon. Getting on these lists–and getting on several of them–is the best way to get access to the right doctors for your loved one’s specific set of needs. Yes, there is always treatment at hospitals available, but this doesn’t provide the ongoing knowledgeable attention needed to thrive. People do better when they work with a doctor who is familiar with them and their situation.
The same goes for senior care. There are a lot of services out there, but not all of them cater to the individual needs that you and your family are facing. Finding the right service to meet those needs is essential for long term success.
Do you have questions about how in-home care can help your family meet your needs? Feel free to give us a call. One of our professional caregivers would be happy to sit down with you and talk more about what in-home care is and how Paradise In-Home Care specifically can help your family to thrive.
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