Geriatricians online in Spain

Geriatricians consider how multiple medical conditions interact over time, especially in patients with complex or chronic health issues. Symptoms in older adults often present differently and may be influenced by frailty, reduced physiological reserve, or polypharmacy.

The specialty emphasises overall function, independence, and quality of life alongside disease management. Many geriatric concerns develop gradually and require longitudinal assessment rather than episodic care.

A key aim of geriatrics is to distinguish normal ageing from conditions that benefit from targeted medical evaluation.

Cognitive changes, including memory concerns, confusion, or suspected dementia, commonly prompt referral. Geriatricians assess cognitive symptoms in the context of overall health, medications, and functional status.

Recurrent falls, balance problems, and mobility decline are also common indications for consultation. These issues may reflect neurological, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, or medication-related factors.

Older adults are often referred for review of complex medication regimens, especially when side effects, interactions, or adherence concerns arise.

Geriatricians assess functional ability, including activities of daily living and mobility, to understand how health conditions affect independence. Small changes in health can have a significant functional impact in older adults.

Functional assessment helps guide decisions about further investigations, treatment priorities, and support needs. It also assists in identifying potentially reversible contributors to decline.

Maintaining function is often as important as treating disease in geriatric care.

Mood disorders, including depression and anxiety, are common in later life and may present with atypical symptoms. These conditions can significantly affect physical health and daily functioning.

Geriatricians assess mental well-being alongside physical health, recognising the close relationship between the two. Cognitive and emotional changes are not an inevitable part of ageing.

Careful evaluation helps avoid attributing treatable conditions to age alone.

Organ-specific conditions may need ongoing management by cardiology, neurology, oncology, or other specialties, with geriatrics providing supportive coordination.

Geriatricians identify when symptoms fall outside the scope of geriatric care alone and facilitate appropriate referral.

Collaborative care is a core principle of geriatrics.