Geriatric Care: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Geriatric Care?
A geriatrician, a doctor who specializes in older people, provides geriatric care. Family practitioners and internists may also have a lot of experience with older patients. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Geriatrics means health care for older adults. Home health care services may help with medicines, wound care, medical equipment, and physical therapy. A geriatric care manager is usually a licensed nurse or social worker. Care managers work with older adults and their families. They make a care plan and find local services.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Older adults often have several health problems and may take many medicines. This puts them at added risk for side effects. Older adults may also need help with personal care. This includes bathing, dressing, grooming, using the toilet, eating, and moving around. A geriatric care manager can be especially helpful when a caregiver lives far away.
How to prepare
First, list the qualities you want in a doctor. One question to ask a doctor is, "Do you have many older patients?"
Write down all the medicines you take. Show the list to all your health care providers.
If you may need help understanding or remembering what the doctor says, bring a friend or relative.
What happens during it
A main doctor gets to know you and what your health is normally like. This doctor can help you make medical decisions that suit your values. This doctor can keep in touch with your other specialists and health care providers.
A geriatric care manager can do the following.
- Make home visits and suggest services
- Evaluate in-home care needs
- Coordinate medical services
A home health provider may visit for a few hours each day or stay 24/7.
Recovery
Home health care may include nursing care at home. It can help a person recover from surgery, an accident, or an illness. After a hospital stay, if you still need nursing care at home for a short time, the hospital can help arrange a home health aide. Medicare has limited coverage of home health service costs. The services must be short-term. They must come from agencies certified by Medicare.
Risks and side effects
People age 65 and older tend to take more medicines than any other age group. Taking many medicines can raise the risk of side effects and other problems. If a medicine has side effects, do not stop it before you talk with a health care provider. Call your doctor right away if you have any problems with your medicines. Caring for an older adult can be rewarding. It can also be hard and stressful.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have bleeding that will not stop, trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, or fainting.
Who performs it
Geriatric care managers are usually licensed nurses or social workers.
Common questions
What does a geriatric care manager do?
A geriatric care manager works with older adults and their families. The manager makes a care plan and finds local services. A care manager can also coordinate medical services.
Does Medicare pay for a geriatric care manager?
No, Medicare and Medicaid do not pay for this service. Most people must pay for some or all of this service themselves.
How do I find a geriatric care manager?
Your doctor or other health care provider may be able to recommend one. You can also contact the Aging Life Care Association.
What should I do if a medicine causes side effects?
Do not stop the medicine before you talk with a health care provider. Write the side effects down so you can tell your doctor or pharmacist. Your provider may prescribe a different medicine or help in other ways.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- National Institute on Aging - How To Choose a Doctor You Can Talk to
- National Institute on Aging - Services for Older Adults Living at Home
- National Institute on Aging - Taking Medicines Safely as You Age
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
