What Does a Geriatric Neurologist Do?
Imagine sitting with an aging parent who’s started forgetting appointments, misplacing familiar objects or moving more slowly than usual. You’re told they need to see a specialist — but not just any neurologist. They need someone trained specifically in the neurological changes that occur later in life.
Geriatric neurology is a subspecialty of neurology focused on diagnosing and managing neurological conditions that primarily affect older adults. These specialists understand how the brain changes with age and how those changes intersect with other medical conditions common in older populations.
In this article, we explore:
- What geriatric neurology is
- How the specialty developed
- The most common neurological conditions treated in older adults
- The day-to-day responsibilities of a geriatric neurologist
- When patients may be referred to this type of specialist
How Geriatric Neurology Became a Specialty
The study of neurology began in the 19th century, centering on the understanding and treatment of disorders that affect the nervous system. As lifespans increased, it became clear that a new specialization in neurology was necessary: one that addressed the unique neurological conditions of older adults.
This gave rise to geriatric neurologists, medical professionals specifically trained in diagnosing and treating neurological issues common in aging populations.
What Conditions Do Geriatric Neurologists Treat?
While geriatric neurologists treat many conditions related to the nervous system, some of the most common conditions include:
Alzheimer’s Disease
The most frequently seen form of dementia, Alzheimer’s affects 5.2 million Americans aged 65 and older. While it can also occur in younger individuals, the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s increases with age.
Although the exact cause of Alzheimer’s is unknown, it’s classified as a neurodegenerative disease that occurs when nerve cells in the brain die, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is another condition that typically occurs in individuals 65 and older. Although researchers are still searching for its cause, Parkinson’s is characterized by physical symptoms such as tremors, slowed movement, impaired balance and difficulty with motor control.
Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. Even a temporary pause in blood flow can cause brain cells to die, leading to a loss of some brain function.
Strokes vary in severity, and depending on the type, they can significantly impact a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks, including moving, speaking, eating and thinking.
What Do Medical Professionals in Geriatric Neurology Do?
Geriatric neurologists work with patients who have a range of neurological conditions. While their daily caseload will vary, their primary responsibilities include:
- Diagnosis
After consulting with a patient and assessing their current condition, a geriatric neurologist may conduct evaluations, imaging exams and neurological tests to determine if the patient has a specific condition. - Creating personalized treatment plans
Once they’ve made a diagnosis, a geriatric neurologist will tailor a treatment plan to the patient’s symptoms and overall health. This could involve prescribing medications, recommending physical therapy or mental health support and coordinating a detailed appointment schedule that includes multidisciplinary care. - Monitoring patient care
Many neurological conditions in older adults are progressive, leading to evolving symptoms. Collaborating with other healthcare providers, geriatric neurologists deliver ongoing care, adjusting their patients’ treatment plans as needed to manage their symptoms effectively over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How is a geriatric neurologist different from a general neurologist?
A geriatric neurologist specializes in neurological conditions that primarily affect older adults. They understand how aging interacts with cognitive decline, mobility issues and chronic disease. - What types of patients see a geriatric neurologist?
Most patients are adults over 65 experiencing memory changes, movement disorders, stroke complications or other age-related neurological concerns. - When should someone see a geriatric neurologist?
If an older adult shows signs of progressive memory loss, unexplained behavioral changes, tremors or difficulty with balance or coordination, a referral to a specialist may be recommended.
The University of Florida: The Next Step in Your Career
As the U.S. population continues to age, we need healthcare professionals with expertise in aging-related conditions now more than ever before. Whether you’re interested in neurology, gerontology or another area of aging-focused care, expanding your knowledge can help you better serve older adults.
The University of Florida offers fully online graduate programs in innovative aging studies, medical physiology and aging, and aging and geriatric practice. Designed for working professionals, these programs provide you with flexible scheduling, affordable tuition and expert-led instruction to help you advance your career in aging-focused care.
Explore your options and take the next step in your professional journey.
Sources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31753157/
https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2023/05/2020-census-united-states-older-population-grew.html
https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/01/09/us-centenarian-population-is-projected-to-quadruple-over-the-next-30-years
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/neurological-disorders
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/alzheimers-disease
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/stroke
