THE CARE OF ELDERLY ADULTS

Hospice is a type of care and a philosophy of care that focuses on the palliation of aterminally ill patient's symptoms. These symptoms can be physical, emotional, spiritual or social in nature. The concept of hospice has been evolving since the 11th century. Then, and for centuries thereafter, hospices were places of hospitality for the sick, wounded, or dying, as well as those for travelers and pilgrims. The modern concept of hospice includes palliative care for the incurably ill given in such institutions as hospitals or extended care facilities, but also care provided to those who would rather die in their own homes.

Palliative care is a specialized area of healthcare that focuses on relieving and preventing the suffering of patients. Unlike hospice care,palliative medicine is appropriate for patients in all disease stages, including those undergoing treatment for curable illnesses and those living with chronic diseases, as well as patients who are nearing the end of life. Palliative medicine utilizes a multidisciplinary approach to patient care, relying on input from physicians, nurses, chaplains, social workers, psychologists, and other allied health professionals in formulating a plan of care to relieve suffering in all areas of a patient's life. This multidisciplinary approach allows the palliative care team address physical, emotional, spiritual, and social concerns that arise with advanced illness.

Geriatrics is a sub-specialty of internal medicine that focuses on health care of elderly people. It aims to promote health by preventing and treating diesases and disabilities in older adults. There is no set age at which patients may be under the care of a geriatrician , or physician who specializes in the care of elderly people. Rather, this decision is determined by the individual patient's needs, and the availability of a specialist.

REBECCA STRICKLAND, MD
1323 E Mansfield Street
Bucyrus, OH 44820
419-563-0300