Geriatric Care

Older adults have unique health challenges that benefit from specialized medical care. Socrates A. Garrigos, MD, PA, is an internal medicine practice in McAllen, Texas, that provides comprehensive geriatric care, managing the complex health issues older adults face. Dr. Garrigos and the team take a patient-centered approach, creating plans that focus on improving quality of life. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about geriatric care.

What is the difference between geriatric care and primary care?

Geriatric care is a type of primary care for older adults, managing all of the health needs for this population. Many older adults have three or more medical problems that require use of multiple medications and cause symptoms that affect daily life. 

Experts in geriatric care manage all of these health issues, aiming to help maintain health and independence. When caring for older adults, the team at Socrates A. Garrigos, MD, PA, focuses on the following key areas:

Medications
The team reviews the type of medications you take, eliminating those that aren’t necessary or cause unwanted side effects. The goal is to make sure you’re taking medications that best fit your health needs without affecting your quality of life. 

Mind
As you get older, your risk of dementia increases. The team at Socrates A. Garrigos, MD, PA, monitors your mental well-being, making sure you get the support you need if you or a loved one experiences changes in mental capacity.

Mobility
Mobility is key to maintaining independence. The team at Socrates A. Garrigos, MD, PA, provides the support and tools older adults require to keep them mobile and independent. They also provide fall prevention education.

What matters most
Most importantly, when it comes to geriatric care, the team focuses on what matters most. Your needs and wishes always come first. 

I’m 75. When do I need geriatric care?

Your age doesn’t determine when it’s time for geriatric care. You need geriatric care when you have multiple health problems that affect your ability to maintain your independence. 

You may also benefit from the specialized care at Socrates A. Garrigos, MD, PA, if you’re an older adult and you’re having a hard time following your current treatment plan because it’s too complex or requires visits with multiple specialists.

The team at Socrates A. Garrigos, MD, PA, also recommends geriatric care for caregivers of older adults who feel overwhelmed.

What can I expect from geriatric care?

You can expect comprehensive and patient-centered geriatric care from the team at Socrates A. Garrigos, MD, PA. The specifics of your plan depend on your health issues, goals, and your outside support system.

The team works with you and your caregivers, creating a plan that benefits your physical, emotional, social, and mental well-being. 

The practice also provides palliative care, offering treatments that relieve pain and other symptoms caused by a serious illness to improve comfort.

Call Socrates A. Garrigos, MD, PA, today or schedule a geriatric care consultation online.