September PCSBV Newsletter 2022

Geriatricians: Specialists in Aging

Upcoming Public Event The Needs of Aging September 27, 2022 7:00 pm PCSBV volunteer, Karl Wahl, will be presenting a talk on the needs of the aging.

What are geriatricians?

Many people’s familiarity with the term “pediatrician” does not extend to the term “geriatrician”. Just as there are doctors who specialize in treating children, there are doctors whose focus is on older adults, specifically those who are more than 65 years old. Geriatricians are doctors with specialized education and training that allows them to effectively respond to the complex health matters faced by many older adults. Examples include balance issues, incontinence, arthritis, depression, cancer and heart disease. As old age can complicate the treatment of these issues, geriatricians are often best positioned to assist older adults who are experiencing one or more of these conditions and may also have underlying conditions. While geriatricians specialize in treating illnesses or health matters in older adults, there is a more holistic side to their treatment. They often work to improve an older individual’s quality of life. As aging adults experience changes to their bodies, their habits and way of life may need to adjust, which can be difficult to accept. Geriatricians work to understand these changes within the context of a patient’s specific lifestyle in order to offer more effective and personalized treatment. The guidance of a geriatrician can be especially beneficial for older adults who have been diagnosed with a life- limiting illness. Geriatricians are experienced in managing the effects of these illnesses that especially impact older adults. Their holistic approach to care and treatment emphasizes the importance of preserving a patient’s comfort and quality of life. Finally, many geriatricians are trained in offering hospice care. These aspects of geriatricians’ work make them particularly well-suited to assist older individuals who have been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness.

Open to the public. Masks are required to enter. Origin at Spring Creek, 808 Spring Creek Drive Canmore, AB, T1W 0K3

Canadian Virtual Hospice offers learning opportunities to enhance understanding of Indigenous values, beliefs, and views about care. Indigenous Cultural Safety Training: Advanced illness, palliative care and grief

Find it at: livingmyculture.ca

Upcoming Special Dates and Events

Orange Shirt Day/ Truth and Reconciliation Day - September 30 World Hospice and Palliative Care Day - October 8 National Hospice Palliative Care Day for Children - October 13 Healthcare Aide/ Assistant Day - October 18 National Bereavement Day – November 15 Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Conference - Nov. 16 -17