I get asked this question a lot.

A geriatrician is a physician for older adults. We go through medical school, residency, and then a fellowship specifically tailored to care for older adults.

Personally, I completed four years of medical school, spent three years in an internal medicine residency, and finished with an extra year of fellowship in geriatric medicine.

What Is a Geriatrician—and When Should You See One?

As we age, our health needs change—and sometimes, so should our doctors. Geriatricians are physicians who specialize in the care of older adults, helping navigate the physical, emotional, and social complexities that come with aging.

Whether you’re managing multiple chronic conditions, noticing changes in memory or mobility, or simply want a partner in proactive aging, a geriatrician can help create a care plan that’s aligned with your values and goals.

What Does a Geriatrician Do?

Geriatricians are board-certified physicians trained in internal or family medicine, with additional fellowship training in Geriatric Medicine. Our focus goes beyond treating individual diseases—we specialize in the whole person.

We often help with:

Memory loss or dementia concerns
Multiple chronic conditions (like diabetes, heart disease, arthritis)
Medication management and deprescribing
Falls, frailty, and mobility issues
Mood changes and caregiver support
Preventive care and advance care planning

We often have more time with patients, work in flexible models of care (from clinic to home to assisted living), and coordinate closely with family and other specialists.

When Should You Consider Seeing a Geriatrician?

There’s no “magic age,” but a good rule of thumb is around retirement age (typically 65 and older)—especially if you or a loved one:

Are managing multiple health problems
Have experienced a recent hospitalization or decline in function
Are feeling overwhelmed by medications
Have concerns about memory or cognition
Would benefit from a more personalized, age-informed approach to care

That said, many people younger than 65 also benefit from our care—especially those with complex health needs or early-onset conditions. Aging is more than just a number.

Why See a Geriatrician?

Aging comes with challenges—but also with strength, resilience, and purpose. Our role is to optimize function, preserve independence, and support quality of life at every stage.

If that sounds like the kind of care you or a loved one would value, we’re here to help.