In the world of healthcare, primary care doctors are the most accessible healthcare professionals who provide convenient and often immediate points of contact when a health concern arises. They receive advanced training and education in providing primary care to people of all ages.
When it comes to seniors, the importance of primary care doctors cannot be overstated. These doctors are like a lifeline for seniors, helping them have a healthier and happier life.
Here are some reasons why primary care doctors are absolutely essential for seniors.
They Can Diagnose and Treat Various Acute Health Conditions
As we age, our immunity decreases, increasing our susceptibility to contracting various acute health conditions and infections. Examples include respiratory tract infections, skin infections, gastrointestinal issues (such as food poisoning, gastritis, or diverticulitis), urinary tract infections, and injuries (such as sprains or minor traumas).
Primary care doctors act as the initial source of care when acute illness or injury arises. They conduct a thorough evaluation, listen to patients, review their medical history, and perform a physical examination to identify the cause of symptoms. They may also order diagnostic tests such as X-rays or blood tests to further assess the condition or confirm a diagnosis.
Once a diagnosis is made, they work with seniors to develop a tailored plan consisting of medications, minor surgical procedures (such as draining abscesses, setting fractures, or suturing wounds), and lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk for acute injuries or conditions.
They Can Manage Chronic Health Conditions and Aging-Associated Conditions
Studies have estimated that by the age of 80, approximately, 90 percent of US seniors will have at least one chronic condition, such as hypertension, diabetes, and arthritis, that requires ongoing management.
A primary care doctor is an expert in managing chronic health conditions and age-associated conditions like dementia. They can conduct regular checkups and monitor patients’ health.
They Can Coordinate Your Care
As individuals age, they develop various health conditions and may require multiple treatments from various healthcare providers. A primary care doctor for seniors can act as a central point of contact.
They can also coordinate with specialists and other healthcare providers, ensuring that all the aspects of senior care are properly managed and preventing any potential conflicts or gaps.
They Can Offer Preventive Care
Aging increases the susceptibility to various health risks, including cancer, cardiovascular conditions, and chronic diseases. Preventive care involves regular health checkups and screenings, lifestyle modifications, fall prevention strategies, mental health screenings, cancer screening, and much more.
By providing preventive care, primary care doctors for seniors detect health risks early to prevent the onset or the progression of diseases or illnesses and maintain the good health of senior patients.
They Can Help Seniors Stay Active and Independent
Naturally, aging comes with functional decline (gradual loss of ability to perform daily activities) and physical frailty (a condition that increases the risk of falls, fractures, and disabilities).
Primary care doctors for seniors regularly assess and monitor a senior’s physical health and functional status, perform physical examinations, and identify any changes or issues early on. They also provide necessary interventions and guidance on achieving and maintaining physical health and independence.
Primary Care Doctor for Seniors in North Texas
At Palm Primary Care Texas, we have a team of highly trained and experienced primary care providers who prioritize personalized care, catering to the distinct needs of seniors. In addition to attentive primary care, we offer additional services:
- In-house labs
- Medicare same-day appointments, walk-ins, and minimal to no wait times
- Specialist care coordination
- Transportation assistance
- 24/7 access to care
- Free prescription delivery
- Telemedicine
- Dedicated support representatives to hand hold patients
If you want to know more about us or would like to schedule a one-on-one consultation with our providers, call us today at our convenient location near you.
