Integrative Approaches to Geriatrics

Since 1914 when Ignatz Nascher coined the term, geriatrics has lamented its small size and low stature among medical specialties. In response, we focused our scientific and clinical efforts on the oldest, sickest, and frailest patients, helping them in ways both measurable and profound. While this seemed a necessary, morally righteous approach, it led to the field’s association with only a small percentage of older adults. To broaden our appeal, impact, and import, geriatrics must broaden its scope to include older adults of all ages and health statuses and increase our competence in fostering healthy old age, prevention, and self-care in all stages of old age.

While most modern medicine steps in once a disease has taken root, Integrative Medicine (IM) is evidence-based care that treats the whole person, emphasizing prevention, wellness, and healing even when cure isn’t attainable, and questioning the universal dominance of technology and pharmaceuticals for disease management. As such, it aligns with both core baby boomer values and geriatrics’ focus on function, goals, and patient/caregiver-centered care. Despite their overlapping values, traditionally geriatrics has included little IM, and IM has included little geriatrics. That has begun to change since Dr. Kogan's seminal textbook titled Integrative Geriatrics published in 2017 by Oxford University Press. In this presentation Dr. Kogan presents evidence for the dire need for the use of IM approaches in geriatrics as well as discusses the number of Integrative approaches for most common geriatric conditions including chronic acid reflux, recurring urinary infections, and chronic pain. The webinar recording lasts 62 minutes, including a Q & A session.