All About Physicians

Geriatricians are physicians (internist, family medicine practitioner) who are specifically trained in the special needs of elders (memory loss/dementia, urinary problems, fall prevention, multiple medications, etc.).

Occupational and physical therapists help evaluate an individual’s function in the home and work with the elder’s primary care doctor to design comprehensive safety recommendations.

Geriatric care managers (typically a nurse or social worker) work with families to help with caregiving. Facilitating communication among doctors, the elder and family, geriatric case managers help determine the types of services needed, help with medical management and provide updates about the senior’s health. Care managers are ideal for family caregivers providing long-distance care, particularly those living more than an hour away.

Neurologists are specialized in diagnosing and managing or treating disorders of the brain and nervous system like Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), concussion, epilepsy, migraine, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and stroke. (hyperlink to page below on “Questions for your neurologist”)