How Does Geriatric Care Differ From Other Healthcare Professions?
Geriatric care professionals are trained individuals who provide specialized care and support to the elderly population. They work in various facilities that cater to the unique needs of older adults, such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospices, home care agencies and hospitals. They provide in-home assistance, medical monitoring and companionship for seniors who wish to age in place. Unlike general nursing or other healthcare roles, geriatric care requires a deep understanding of the physiological, psychological and social changes that occur with aging specifically. Professionals in this field will focus on improving the health and well-being of older adults, acquiring specialized knowledge about diseases, conditions and syndromes prevalent among older patients. Those in geriatric benefit from a holistic approach to care that nurtures not just the physical health of older patients but also their mental, emotional and social well-being. The goal of geriatric care can be both interventional and preventative. Professionals in this field work hard to help older adults maintain their independence and functionality by proactively managing their health. Another contrast with other healthcare professions is patient interactions. While other nurses mostly have short-term relationships with patients, especially those in critical care settings, geriatric care nurses often form long-term relationships with patients, as many elderly individuals require ongoing support and comfort for chronic conditions as they reach the end of their lives. The average annual salary for a geriatric nurse is . While only a general nursing degree is required to work in geriatric care, specialized certifications or additional education in geriatric care can enhance your skills and career prospects. While nurses can receive specialized training for geriatric nursing, there are some innate personalities and temperament characteristics that make some nurses particularly well suited to geriatric care. These positions can feel tedious and may require a higher degree of constant vigilance compared to other types of nursing (especially in memory care settings or with patients who have a high fall risk or incontinence). Compassion and real empathy for the elderly can be extremely beneficial for nurses in these settings. The emotional and physical drain of these positions is one of the reasons geriatric nurses are on the higher end of the compensation spectrum for nursing. St. Louis College of Health Careers will thoroughly train you for a career in geriatric care as well as prepare you for a career in other healthcare settings. Our rigorous and insightful course offerings are designed to instill critical thinking and reasoning skills so you can provide personalized patient care in any environment. or call 866-529-2070 today to learn more about our programs and how you can open the doors to your desired career path today.