Geriatrics & Aging

Ethical challenges are central to caring for older adults. This topic explores autonomy, informed consent, capacity assessments, resource allocation, and decision-making at the end of life. Ethical dilemmas related to treatment refusal, life-prolonging interventions, and balancing patient-centered care with clinical recommendations are discussed. Guidance on communication, family involvement, and establishing advanced care plans is provided to ensure dignity, respect, and ethical integrity in geriatric care.

Vision and hearing decline are common with aging and can significantly impact independence and quality of life. This topic covers age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, presbycusis, and hearing loss. Assessment techniques, medical and surgical treatments, assistive technologies, and rehabilitation approaches are discussed. Early detection, adaptive strategies, and integration of sensory aids help maintain functional independence and social engagement in older adults.

Oral health significantly affects nutrition, systemic disease, and overall wellbeing. This topic addresses common age-related oral conditions such as periodontal disease, tooth loss, and dry mouth. Preventive care strategies, dental interventions, and rehabilitative approaches including dentures and implants are discussed. The link between oral health and systemic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline is emphasized, highlighting the importance of integrated care in geriatrics.

Cancer prevalence increases with age, requiring specialized approaches in older adults. This topic covers screening, diagnosis, treatment options, and supportive care tailored for elderly patients. Challenges such as comorbidities, frailty, and tolerability of chemotherapy and radiation therapy are discussed. Holistic management including pain control, psychological support, and rehabilitation strategies ensures improved outcomes and quality of life. Advances in personalized oncology and targeted therapies for aging populations are also explored.

Sleep patterns often change with age, and sleep disturbances can negatively impact cognitive function, cardiovascular health, and emotional wellbeing. This topic examines insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and circadian rhythm disturbances. Assessment techniques, therapeutic interventions, lifestyle modifications, and pharmacological approaches are discussed. The importance of sleep hygiene, environmental factors, and behavioral strategies to promote restorative sleep is highlighted as a crucial aspect of healthy aging.

Aging is associated with gradual decline in immune function, leading to increased susceptibility to infections. This topic explores age-related changes in the immune system, response to vaccines, and strategies to prevent and manage infections. Topics include respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, influenza, and emerging infectious diseases in older populations. Strategies for infection control, immunization programs, and individualized preventive care are emphasized to maintain health and reduce morbidity.

Neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and related movement disorders are a major concern in geriatrics. This topic covers underlying pathophysiology, early diagnostic methods, pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, and rehabilitative strategies. Support for caregivers, management of motor and non-motor symptoms, and quality-of-life interventions are highlighted. Innovative research in neuroprotection, disease-modifying therapies, and rehabilitation technologies are discussed to slow progression and maintain functional independence.

Social, economic, and environmental factors significantly influence health outcomes in older adults. This topic examines access to healthcare, social support networks, elder abuse prevention, long-term care policies, and age-friendly community initiatives. The impact of income, education, housing, and transportation on aging populations is discussed. Advocacy for policy changes, community programs, and public health interventions that support equitable access to healthcare and promote social inclusion are emphasized. Participants gain insight into addressing disparities and improving overall wellbeing in aging populations.

Rehabilitation is essential for restoring functional abilities after illness, injury, or surgery. This topic explores physical therapy, occupational therapy, cognitive rehabilitation, and adaptive strategies to maintain independence. Interventions focus on improving strength, balance, coordination, and daily living skills. Assistive devices, mobility aids, and environmental modifications are highlighted to enhance safety and autonomy. Rehabilitation programs also address mental health, social engagement, and community reintegration, with the goal of preserving quality of life and reducing disability among older adults.

Healthy aging focuses on strategies to preserve physical, cognitive, and emotional health throughout life. It explores interventions aimed at reducing age-related decline, enhancing resilience, and extending not only lifespan but also healthspan—the period of life spent in good health. Topics include nutrition and dietary supplementation, regular physical activity, mental stimulation, and stress management. Population studies identifying factors associated with longevity, including genetic predispositions, environmental influences, and lifestyle behaviors, are discussed. Public health initiatives, such as community-based programs and preventive healthcare strategies, are highlighted. The emphasis is on a holistic approach, combining preventive medicine, wellness programs, and lifestyle modifications to promote active and productive aging.

Advances in technology are transforming healthcare delivery for older adults. This topic explores telemedicine, wearable health monitors, smart home systems, and mobile applications designed to support aging populations. Remote monitoring of vital signs, medication adherence, and activity levels allows for proactive care and early intervention. Emerging artificial intelligence tools help predict health risks, support clinical decision-making, and enhance personalized care plans. Digital platforms for social interaction, cognitive training, and mental health support are also highlighted as ways to improve quality of life, independence, and connectivity for older adults.

Preventive measures and regular health assessments are crucial for maintaining independence in older adults. This topic covers strategies such as vaccination, cancer screening, fall risk assessments, sensory evaluations, and comprehensive geriatric assessments. Emphasis is placed on early detection of chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline. Preventive care also involves patient education, lifestyle counseling, and risk reduction strategies. Incorporating preventive practices into routine care helps reduce hospitalizations, improve functional outcomes, and enhance overall quality of life.

Hormonal changes with aging impact metabolism, bone health, and overall physiological function. This topic focuses on common endocrine disorders in older adults, including diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, osteoporosis, and adrenal or pituitary imbalances. Approaches to diagnosis, management, and treatment are explored, with an emphasis on individualized care. The role of hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle modifications, and dietary adjustments are discussed to optimize endocrine function. Monitoring and managing complications, including metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risks, are highlighted as critical components in improving health outcomes among the elderly.

Mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and social isolation, are common among older adults and significantly affect quality of life. This topic explores screening methods, therapeutic interventions, and community-based support programs to address emotional wellbeing. Cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, and group counseling are examined as approaches to reduce psychological distress. Social engagement, intergenerational programs, and volunteer activities are emphasized as protective factors against loneliness and depression. Attention is also given to caregiver support and the development of strategies to maintain resilience, life satisfaction, and emotional stability in the aging population.

Maintaining mobility and physical independence is crucial for quality of life in older adults. This topic explores the prevention and management of conditions such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, sarcopenia, and falls. Therapeutic interventions, including physiotherapy, exercise programs, pharmacological treatments, and surgical options, are discussed. Assistive devices, home modifications, and rehabilitation strategies help improve safety and mobility. Early detection methods, risk assessment tools, and lifestyle approaches to strengthen bones, muscles, and joints are highlighted. A multidisciplinary approach combining medical care, rehabilitation, and community support is essential to preserve functional independence.

Cardiovascular diseases remain leading causes of morbidity and mortality in older adults. This topic addresses age-related changes in the heart and vascular system, risk factors, diagnostic tools, and preventive strategies. It covers hypertension, heart failure, coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, and stroke. Advances in geriatric cardiology, such as minimally invasive procedures, implantable devices, and personalized pharmacotherapy, are highlighted. Preventive interventions focusing on lifestyle modification, diet, physical activity, and early detection of cardiovascular risks are emphasized. Strategies for managing comorbidities and polypharmacy ensure safe and effective cardiovascular care tailored to the elderly population.

Nutrition plays a critical role in maintaining health, preventing disease, and managing chronic conditions in older adults. This topic explores age-specific nutritional requirements, including protein, vitamins, minerals, and caloric needs. It addresses the impact of diet on cardiovascular health, diabetes management, bone density, cognitive function, and immune response. Malnutrition, frailty, and sarcopenia are highlighted as major concerns, with strategies for early identification and intervention. Therapeutic diets, supplementation, and the role of functional foods in promoting metabolic health are discussed. Challenges in dietary adherence, including socioeconomic factors, accessibility, and sensory changes affecting appetite and taste, are also considered.

Older adults often take multiple medications for chronic conditions, increasing the risk of adverse drug reactions and drug interactions. This topic focuses on optimizing pharmacotherapy for the elderly, considering age-related changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. It covers deprescribing strategies, personalized medication regimens, medication adherence, and minimizing polypharmacy risks. The impact of comorbidities on drug metabolism and how to balance therapeutic benefits with safety is discussed. Case studies illustrate practical approaches to monitoring, adjusting doses, and preventing medication-related complications. Emerging tools and technologies to improve medication safety, including electronic prescribing, decision-support systems, and clinical guidelines for geriatric pharmacology, are also highlighted.

Cognitive decline, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, is a major challenge in geriatric care. This track examines the mechanisms of neurodegeneration, early detection strategies, and preventive measures. It highlights advances in neuroimaging, biomarkers, and cognitive assessment tools that enable early diagnosis. Interventions such as cognitive training, pharmacological therapy, and lifestyle modifications, including diet, exercise, and social engagement, are discussed. The role of mental stimulation, education, and community engagement in reducing cognitive decline is emphasized. Caregiver support, management of behavioral symptoms, and ethical considerations in dementia care are also addressed. Understanding cognitive health holistically provides insights into improving quality of life and functional independence for older adults.