GERIATRIC SYNDROMES
Geriatric syndromes are a group of medical conditions or health issues that are common in older adults and often involve multiple factors. These syndromes are typically characterized by a complex interplay of physical, psychological, social, and environmental factors. They can have a significant impact on an older person's overall health, functional status, and quality of life. These are briefly described below for reader's insight:
Gait abnormalities leading to imbalance, for instance difficulty walking, and mobility challenges can result from muscle weakness, joint problems, or neurological conditions. Most common contributor to fall and related injuries as aforementioned.
Frailty is a state of increased vulnerability to stressors due to age-related decline in multiple physiological systems. adds to disability of an elderly. It is characterized by weakness, fatigue, decreased physical activity, and increased risk of adverse health outcomes.
Cognitive Impairment includes a range of conditions, from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to dementia. Memory loss, difficulty with decision-making, and changes in language and behaviour are common features.
Insomnia/Sleeplessness leads to cognitive difficulties.
Falls and Fall-Related Injuries: Falls are a major concern among older adults and can lead to fractures, head injuries, and other complications. Factors such as muscle weakness, balance problems, medication side effects, and environmental hazards contribute to falls.
Delirium is a sudden and severe change in mental function characterized by confusion, disorientation, and difficulty focusing. Simply, understood as clouding of consciousness. It can be triggered by illness, surgery, medications, or other stressors.
Urinary or faecal incontinence is the inability to control bladder or bowel function. It significantly impact an elder individual's dignity and quality of life.
Poly pharmacy refers to the use of multiple medications(>5 drugs), which can increase the risk of drug interactions, adverse effects, and medication-related problems. It is most talked and less practiced thing adding to non adherence to medications thereby therapeutic effect.
Malnutrition can result from inadequate nutrient intake or absorption and is associated with weight loss, muscle wasting, and decreased immune function. Easily missed entity inviting dreadful infections.
Pressure ulcers are areas of damaged skin caused by prolonged pressure on the skin, often due to immobility. They can lead to infections- precursor of septicaemia if left untreated.
Sensory obtundation is related to crucial special senses impairment namely, vision and hearing impairments leading to communication difficulties, social isolation, and increased risk of accidents.
Social isolation and loneliness can lead to a decline in physical and mental health. Depression is a common mental health concern among older adults and can have a profound impact on overall well-being.
All the above mentioned entities have multidirectional causation which leads to Hypoglycemic risk (besides diabetic patients) and Dyselectrolytemia( Low/high Na/K/P/Mg/Ca) due to less/loss of appetite, reduced nourishment possible reason being impaired intestinal absorption. These have direct impact on cardiovascular outcomes.
Managing geriatric syndromes often requires a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach involving healthcare professionals such as family & geriatric medicine physicians, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, social workers, and mental health specialists. Prevention and management strategies may include regular exercise, medication review, environmental modifications, social engagement, nutritional support, and addressing underlying medical conditions. It's important for older adults, their families, and caregivers to be aware of these syndromes and take proactive steps to address them.
Loop in your doctor to initiate shared decision making process.
Dr Akshat Khandekar
Family and Geriatric medicine Physician
Bhopal , Madhya Pradesh, India
drakshat@amarcare.in