Nearly one in five people in the United States is 65 or older, and with ongoing medical advancements, that number is expected to rise in the coming years. Living longer has its perks: more time to make memories, share wisdom with loved ones and enjoy life’s little moments. However, with a longer lifespan, some individuals become more susceptible to conditions such as heart disease and Alzheimer’s.
Fortunately, the field of aging has expanded in recent years, bringing new roles designed to support individuals facing these disorders. For those experiencing cognitive decline, treatment options are available through geriatric neurology. In collaboration with other healthcare professionals, geriatric neurologists diagnose, treat and manage neurological conditions in older adults. But what is geriatric neurology, exactly, and what role does it play in caring for our aging population?
Key Conditions Treated by Geriatric Neurologists
The study of neurology began in the 19th century, centering on the understanding and treatment of disorders that affect the nervous system, from epilepsy to multiple sclerosis. As lifespans increased, it became clear that a new specialization in neurology was necessary: one that addressed the unique neurological conditions of older adults. This gave rise to geriatric neurologists, medical professionals specifically trained in diagnosing and treating neurological issues common in aging populations.
While geriatric neurologists treat numerous conditions related to the nervous system, some of the most common conditions include:
Alzheimer’s Disease
The most frequently seen form of dementia, Alzheimer’s affects 5.2 million Americans aged 65 and older. While it can also occur in younger individuals, the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s increases with age. Although the exact cause is unknown, it is classified as a neurodegenerative disease that occurs when nerve cells in the brain die, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is another condition that typically occurs in individuals 65 and older. Although researchers are still searching for its cause, Parkinson’s is characterized by physical symptoms such as tremors, slowed movement, impaired balance and difficulty with motor control.
Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. Even a temporary pause in blood flow can cause brain cells to die, leading to a loss of some brain function. Strokes vary in severity, and depending on the type, they can significantly impact a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks, including moving, speaking, eating and thinking.
What Do Medical Professionals in Geriatric Neurology Do?
Geriatric neurologists work with patients who have numerous neurological conditions. While their daily caseload will vary, some of their primary responsibilities include:
- Diagnosis
After consulting with a patient and assessing their current condition, a geriatric neurologist may conduct evaluations, imaging exams and neurological tests to determine if the patient has a specific condition.
- Creating personalized treatment plans
Once they’ve made a diagnosis, they’ll tailor a treatment plan based on the patient’s symptoms and overall health. This could involve prescribing medications, recommending physical therapy or mental health support and coordinating a detailed appointment schedule that includes multidisciplinary care.
- Monitoring patient care
Many neurological conditions in older adults are progressive, leading to evolving symptoms. Collaborating with other healthcare providers, geriatric neurologists deliver ongoing care, adjusting the patient’s treatment plan as needed to manage their symptoms effectively over time.
The University of Florida: The Next Step in Your Career
In the 1920s, only 5% of the population reached the age of 65, so the demand for medical professionals specializing in older adults was low. Fast forward a century, and now approximately 18% of the U.S. population is 65 or older. With this significant increase, the field of aging in healthcare has become much more prominent.
From physicians and nurses to social workers specializing in aging, gerontology has become a critical focus in healthcare. One of the emerging roles in this field is none other than the geriatric neurologist. Whether this specialized role piques your interest or you’re passionate about other careers in aging, the University of Florida offers several online graduate programs designed to help healthcare professionals advance their careers:
- Master’s Degree in Innovative Aging Studies
Our comprehensive 30-credit online program offers a personalized curriculum that addresses the biological, clinical, psychological, sociological, legal and ethical aspects of aging, tailored for both current and aspiring professionals in the field.
- Master’s Degree in Medical Physiology and Aging
With 15 credits focused on aging and 15 on medical physiology, this program provides a well-rounded foundation in two high-demand healthcare areas, preparing you for success in a variety of medical roles.
- Graduate Certificate in Aging and Geriatric Practice
Looking to make your application stand out? Our 15-credit online graduate certificate offers specialized knowledge that can enhance your resume and provide you with practical expertise to excel in several roles in the field of aging.
We offer affordable tuition, asynchronous courses and year-round start dates. Click here to jump-start the next chapter in your professional journey.
Sources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31753157/
https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2023/05/2020-census-united-states-older-population-grew.html
https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/01/09/us-centenarian-population-is-projected-to-quadruple-over-the-next-30-years
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/neurological-disorders
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/alzheimers-disease
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/stroke