Geriatrics (Aging)

What to expect in an aging assessment

People who have age-related medical, psychological, cognitive or social issues that interfere with daily life may benefit from an aging assessment. Individuals may be referred to the Center by a family physician, relatives, concerned friends, social service agencies or other health care providers. A written order from the individual’s primary care physician helps us communicate more effectively with the patient’s doctor.

This 1½- to 2-hour appointment includes an interview and examination by a board-certified geriatric physician. A social services liaison may be called in as needed.

The assessment reviews overall health history and current health status. Patients are also screened for cognitive problems, incontinence, falls, depression, nutritional status and other age-related concerns. At the end, findings and recommendations are discussed with the patient and family. The geriatric health team will make appropriate referrals if more diagnostic testing or specialty services are needed.

What happens after the first visit?

Following the evaluation, the patient’s referring doctor will receive the geriatrician’s report summarizing the findings and listing any recommendations. Patients may also receive referrals to local agencies and specialty services. These may include geriatric psychiatry, neuropsychology, physical therapy, nutrition and others as needed.

Follow-up appointments can be made as appropriate.

What role does the family play?

An assessment can help family members and caregivers better understand the needs and concerns of the patient. We encourage relatives and caregivers to attend the initial visit to lend support and provide additional information as needed. Often the geriatric team will suggest ways to reduce daily frustrations for everyone concerned. Communicating with family members who live far away can help them feel more comfortable about the care provided to the patient.

What about cost and insurance coverage?

Traditional Medicare and private insurance generally cover the majority of costs associated with a geriatric assessment. Costs not covered by insurance are the responsibility of the patient or the family. Additional tests or specialty services ordered at the time of the visit will be billed separately by the hospital department providing the service.

Geriatric Psychiatry

Mental health conditions such as depression are common in later life. A geriatric psychiatrist is a physician highly trained in the management of emotional and behavioral problems related to aging. Interventions may include both counseling and medication. Individuals may be referred by themselves, their family or a physician.

Good mental health is key to aging well. Older adults experiencing chronic emotional distress related to aging may benefit from specialized psychiatric therapy. Geriatric psychiatry experts at Greenwich Hospital offer evaluation, treatment and attentive follow-up care to patients age 60 and older.

Memory failure, problem behavior, mood disturbance, anxiety, or difficulty coping with losses and transitions can all be addressed in these outpatient sessions. Family members or others concerned about an older adult may also benefit from treatment.

Our experienced staff offers a wide range of services:

• Diagnostic evaluation
• Drug therapy
• Customized treatment plans
• Individual therapy
• Family therapy
• Couples treatment
• Assistance with
  • Coping with dementia and behavioral problems
  • Dealing with life changes
• Diagnosis and treatment of agitation due to dementia
• Group therapy
• Consultation and liaison with primary care physicians, assisted living facilities and adult communities
• Outreach and public education

Our Geriatric Psychiatry Staff

Our geriatric psychiatry team includes a board-certified geriatric psychiatrist, licensed clinical social workers and a nurse practitioner. They are highly trained to provide diagnosis and compassionate care for the emotional problems of later life. Treatment is tailored to the unique needs of patients, including the family when appropriate.

An experienced geriatric social worker is available to consult with family members about the emotional, behavioral and social needs of their loved one. Referrals or requests for treatment can come from physicians, other health care providers as well as the patient, or family members.

Medicare and many other insurances are accepted. For further information please call 203-863-3316.

Comprehensive Aging Assessment

People with age-related medical, psychological, cognitive or social issues that interfere with daily life may benefit from an aging assessment. It provides detailed information about current health status and recommendations to help prepare for the future. Individuals may be referred to the Center by a family physician, relatives, concerned friends, social service agencies or other health care providers. The assessment is conducted by an interdisciplinary team headed by a board-certified geriatrician who specializes in aging issues. A written order from the individual’s primary care physician helps us communicate more effectively with the patient’s doctor. Fee.

Psychiatric Evaluation

Depression and behavioral issues that accompany memory loss or dementia are common later in life. Counseling, medication, or a combination of both, often help patients feel better, more productive and satisfied with life. The Center for Healthy Aging’s geriatric psychiatrist is highly trained in the management of emotional and behavioral problems related to aging. For more information, call 203-863-4373. Fee.

Family Caregiving Consultation

An experienced licensed clinical social worker meets privately with families to discuss needs and challenges related to caring for a person with dementia or chronic disease. The goal is to enable caregivers to adequately address concerns and make knowledgeable decisions. To arrange a consultation, contact Roni Lang, LCSW, at 203-863-4375. Fee.

The Center for Healthy Aging and Research Center for Clinical Studies, Inc. is currently conducting clinical trials in Alzheimer's and dementia. For information on how you or your loved one are able to participate, please call 203-838-0070.

Support Groups

Support groups offered through the Center for Healthy Aging are free. Please call ahead before attending to make sure the group is suitable for your needs.

Please call 203-863-4375 for specific information about support groups and meeting sites.

Women's Spousal Support Group: This support group is designed for women who provide care for a chronically ill spouse. Find new friends, practical information and emotional support. The group provides a forum to address the many concerns of spousal caregivers. It also gives caregivers a much-needed break or respite to be with others living with a similar situation. Meets twice a month (the second and fourth Thursdays) at the hospital's Center for Healthy Aging from 1:00-2:15pm. Group size is limited to 10 members, so please call 203-863-4375 to preregister. free.

Family Caregiver Support Group: Become a savvy caregiver. This group provides support for adults who care for a family member with Alzheimer's disease or other types of dementia. Individuals meet twice a month to talk with caregiving peers and share advice about common difficulties and challenges. Led by a clinical social worker with expertise in family counseling and caregiver concerns. Meets the first and third Thursday of each month at the hospital's Center for Healthy Aging, 1:00-2:15pm. Group size is limited to 10 members, so please call 203-863-4375 to preregister. free.

Programs

GENERATIONS: This free membership program is offered to adults age 50 and older. Members enjoy stimulating seminars ranging from the science of laughter to the joys of late-life learning. From disease prevention to caring for older relatives, GENERATIONS aims to stimulate the mind and encourage discussion.

Eligibility: Any person age 50 or older who resides in the Greenwich Hospital service area can join.

Benefits include:

• Educational seminars and workshops
• A no-cost Catalyst Scripts Prescription Drug Discount card offering 10-30% savings on prescriptions.
• Subscribers to Catalyst Best Benefits Plan save 10-60% on prescription eyewear.
• Subscribers to Catalyst Best Benefits Dental Plan save on dental care offered by participating providers.
• Hertz vehicle rental discounts.

GENERATIONS Platinum offers additional benefits for a one-time fee of $65. To join GENERATIONS or GENERATIONS Platinum, call toll-free 877-838-4888.

Official U.S. Government Site for Medicare

Alzheimer's Research Foundation

Alzheimer's Association

AARP

National Association of Geriatric Care Managers

Greenwich Commission on Aging