Integrated, holistic care for geriatric well-being

Robert Walker

doi:10.35841/aaagim-9.3.291

Mini Review - Archives of General Internal Medicine (2025) Volume 9, Issue 3

Integrated, holistic care for geriatric well-being

Robert Walker^*

Department of Geriatrics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK

*Corresponding Author:: Robert Walker
Department of Geriatrics
University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
E-mail: robert.walker@ed.ac.uk

Received : 01-Jul-2025, Manuscript No. aaagim-291; Editor assigned : 03-Jul-2025, PreQC No. aaagim-291(PQ); Reviewed : 23-Jul-2025, QC No aaagim-291; Revised : 01-Aug-2025, Manuscript No. aaagim-291(R); Published : 12-Aug-2025 , DOI : 10.35841/aaagim-9.3.291

Citation: Walker R. Integrated, holistic care for geriatric well-being. aaagim. 2025;09(03):291.

Visit for more related articles at Archives of General Internal Medicine

Introduction

The study of frailty in older adults is paramount, as understanding its underlying factors, such as the prevalence of polypharmacy and issues of malnutrition, is crucial for timely and effective medical interventions. These insights are not merely academic; they are vital for formulating targeted preventive and therapeutic measures that can significantly improve geriatric health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for the aging population [1].

Digital health interventions represent a transformative approach to geriatric care, offering substantial potential for the management of chronic conditions and the overall enhancement of well-being among older individuals. The success of such technological integrations, as highlighted by an umbrella review, hinges on prioritizing user-friendly designs and tailoring these digital solutions to meet the specific, evolving needs of older adults, ensuring widespread adoption and efficacy [2].

An exploration into the social determinants of health reveals how deeply factors like socioeconomic status and the characteristics of one's living environment influence health outcomes for older adults. This systematic review and meta-analysis strongly advocates for the development and implementation of comprehensive policies designed to address these fundamental societal factors, thereby fostering more equitable geriatric care and actively working to reduce prevalent health disparities [3].

Polypharmacy continues to be a significant challenge within geriatric health, evidenced by its strong association with adverse health events, including an increased risk of falls and hospitalizations. The rigorous findings from a systematic review and meta-analysis emphasize the non-negotiable requirement for regular, thorough medication reviews and the creation of highly personalized care plans, all aimed at systematically minimizing these substantial risks for older adults [4].

Mental health support for older adults encompasses a diverse range of interventions, from traditional psychotherapy to innovative community-based programs. A comprehensive scoping review sheds light on the variable effectiveness observed across these different approaches, leading to a clear call for the adoption of more personalized, evidence-based strategies. The goal is to more effectively improve mental well-being and psychological resilience throughout the aging population, adapting care to individual needs [5].

The prevention of malnutrition among community-dwelling older adults is identified as a cornerstone of maintaining their overall health and vitality. A systematic review and meta-analysis compellingly demonstrate that targeted dietary advice, coupled with appropriate nutritional supplementation, can profoundly improve the nutritional status of this demographic. This improved status is critical not only for general health but also for actively preventing a host of adverse health outcomes [6].

Physical activity interventions consistently show substantial benefits in enhancing physical function among older adults. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials firmly establish that precisely tailored exercise programs are highly effective in mitigating age-related physical decline. These programs not only improve functional independence but also significantly elevate the overall quality of life within the geriatric population, urging the integration of movement into daily routines [7].

The influence of age-friendly environments on the health and well-being of older adults cannot be overstated. A detailed scoping review underscores the pivotal role played by accessible infrastructure, robust supportive social networks, and thoughtfully inclusive policies. These elements are indispensable for successfully fostering healthy aging processes and concurrently enhancing the quality of life for geriatric populations, making communities truly supportive [8].

Preventive care interventions for older adults have been rigorously evaluated, consistently demonstrating positive impacts on reducing morbidity and significantly improving their quality of life. This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials strongly advocates for the widespread implementation of integrated preventive strategies, positioning them as a fundamental cornerstone for effective and proactive geriatric health management across various settings [9].

Telemedicine has rapidly emerged as a critical component in contemporary geriatric care, showcasing considerable potential to bridge gaps in health service access, enhance the management of chronic diseases, and provide vital remote consultations for older adults. A comprehensive systematic review strongly suggests that telemedicine is a highly viable and increasingly essential option for improving geriatric health outcomes, particularly benefiting those in underserved or remote geographic areas by ensuring continuity of care [10].

Conclusion

Geriatric health is a multifaceted domain addressing a wide array of factors that impact the well-being of older adults. Research highlights critical concerns such as frailty, often linked to polypharmacy and malnutrition, emphasizing the need for early and targeted interventions. Beyond clinical issues, the influence of social determinants of health, including socioeconomic status and living environments, is profound, pointing to the necessity of comprehensive policies for equitable care and reduced disparities. Polypharmacy itself is a significant risk, frequently associated with adverse health outcomes, which necessitates diligent medication reviews and individualized care plans. The field is actively exploring various interventions, from digital health solutions designed to manage chronic conditions and improve overall well-being through user-friendly designs, to specific nutrition programs aimed at preventing malnutrition in older adults. Physical activity interventions demonstrate clear benefits in enhancing physical function and mitigating age-related decline. Mental health support is also a priority, calling for personalized, evidence-based strategies. Preventive care interventions, in general, prove effective in reducing morbidity and improving quality of life, positioning them as essential components of geriatric health management. Additionally, fostering age-friendly environments, characterized by accessible infrastructure and robust social networks, is seen as crucial for promoting healthy aging. Telemedicine is also emerging as a valuable tool, expanding access to health services and improving chronic disease management, particularly in remote or underserved communities. Collectively, these studies advocate for integrated, holistic approaches that combine clinical care with environmental, social, and technological support to optimize the health and quality of life for the aging population.