Holistic approach to Geriatric Care

Abstract

Old age is an integral part of human life. The branch of medicine or social science dealing with the health and care of old people is called Geriatrics. Diseases prevention and health maintenance is more important in old age because sickness related morbidity is more frequent, serious, chronic and more expensive to treat in this age group. Geriatric problems are best confronted by preventive measures than curative ones. Clinical consequences in various system of the body due to changes with ageing are described in text books. Various Ayurveda classics gives detailed classification of Vaya based on the degenerative changes in the body. The Nidana, Poorvaroopa and Lakshanas of Jara is clearly mentioned in Madhava Nidana. Importance of Dinacharya and Ritucharya in preventing Jara is mentioned by Acharyas. Ayurveda has the abeyantto avert disease by health promotion and noncommunicable disease prevention. Jara is considered as one among the eight branches of Ayurveda. Rasayana (Rejuvenation) and Jarachikitsa promote healthy longevity. Jarachikitsa and Rasayana helps to delay Vruddhavastha (ageing) and control geriatric degenerative changes in body.