Geriatrics » General approach & assessment

Approach to the Geriatric Patient

Treating an elderly patient even for a common ailment requires a careful approach. One has to pay special attention to liveliness of thought and physical independence. Elderly normally deny symptoms of anxiety or depression, yet betray them with a lowered voice, subdued enthusiasm, or even tears. Thus the illness may have to be detected by verbal and nonverbal clues. Patient's comments about sleep and appetite may reveal information about physical and mental health. A change in the fit of clothing or dentures may indicate weight gain or loss. Unless specifically directed by the treating physician, a person accompanying the patient should not answer the questions as it may give their impression of the ailment.

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