Aging often brings challenges for both the people growing older and their loved ones.

Millions of Americans are beginning to face these challenges as Baby Boomers head into their later years -- and even the healthiest people often must make adjustments in their lifestyles as they age. Elders coping with medical problems or mental decline particularly require additional specialized care and assistance.

Duke Geriatrics works closely with clinicians and programs throughout Duke to comprehensively and sensitively evaluate and treat older people suffering from a broad range of health and wellness concerns, including:

• Arthritis
• Dementia
• Depression
• Diabetes
• Falls
• High blood pressure
• Incontinence
• Medication problems
• Neurological decline
• Osteoporosis
• Shingles

Our geriatricians provide consultation and evaluation for older patients with multiple illnesses or functional impairment. In addition, our active support program serves as an invaluable resource for patients, families, and caregivers facing aging-related challenges that involve, for example, maintaining independence, elder care, and assisted living.

The mission of Duke Geriatrics is to keep older people as healthy and independent as possible. However, when patients face life-threatening conditions or terminal illnesses, many Duke geriatricians provide end-of-life care for patients through palliative care consult services and hospice services, such as Duke HomeCare & Hospice.

To schedule an outpatient appointment, call 919-620-4070 locally. Physicians who wish to make a referral should call 888-ASK-DUKE (888-275-3853) toll-free.