With approximately 10,000 Baby Boomers turning 65 every single day combined with an increasing life expectancy, America is aging at a rapid rate. By 2030, senior citizens will make up about 20% of the population. With an aging population comes a shift in what types of medical professionals will be in the highest demand.

Home Health Aides

As people age, many desire to live as long as possible independently in their own homes. As various physical and mental conditions set in, this often becomes increasingly difficult. Trained home health aides and personal care aides can help with a variety of tasks, ranging from personal hygiene and meal preparation to medication reminders and blood pressure checks. Well-trained individuals are essential to providing quality in-home care.

Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapists

It truly does take a team to provide optimal care to an individual. Physical, occupational, and speech therapists all provide vital services to senior citizens, both at home and in a clinical setting. Often proper therapies can help improve quality of life, eliminate or delay the need for expensive medications that have side effects of their own, and lengthen life.

Geriatric Care Managers

Geriatric care is often complex and requires a team of professionals to ensure proper communication takes place and optimal care is administered. Geriatric care managers help build and lead a team of medical doctors, nurses, therapists, mental health professionals, nutritionists, dietitians, and home health aides. It can be an intimidating task, even for someone that knows the intricacies of the system. A geriatric care manager can help make this time less confusing and the care more organized and effective. Carefully consider the education background and experience level of your geriatric care manager.

Nutritionists and Dietitians

The health of seniors often deteriorates due to improper diet. This happens for a variety of reasons. Sometimes seniors become unable to prepare food. Other times they lack the motivation to cook for themselves, with family or spouses gone. Still other times, they are simply unaware of the nutrition necessary to keep their changing body healthy. A nutritionist or dietitian can help equip seniors to better nourish their bodies.

Care for senior citizens is often multi-faceted and can seem overwhelming at first glance. Employing the help of various medical professionals as a team is extremely important. Talk with your health care provider and insurance company to find out what services are readily available to you or your loved one.