Alternative Medicine

Numerous botanical and biological agents are available for use by older persons. Some of these are increasingly being recommended by physicians and used by patients who seek an alternative or complementary way to treat specific medical problems, to produce an anti-aging effect, or to improve their feelings of “well-being.” Concerns continue, however, regarding the effectiveness of many of these products as well as interactions they may have with prescribed medications. The potential benefit must always be weighed against any possible side effect, although few studies have provided much ...

Recently, I was reminded of an interesting case that illustrates that even with excellent clinical skills and sophisticated testing, we must remain humble and recognize that certain patient problems may remain unsolved despite our best efforts. In addition, physicians must continually keep apprised of new information and be prepared for the ever-changing challenges of modern medicine.

Mr. J is an 82-year-old Chinese-speaking gentleman who reports being in good health his whole life. He walks daily, tends to his own personal needs, and enjoys visits from his children and grandchildre...

This issue of Clinical Geriatrics is the last of the calendar year. I thank you, the reader, for your continued interest in our Journal and for the comments we have received. This issue appropriately contains an article that offers hope for the future. Drs. Erlich, Ghayee, and Noga write on chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and the many advances in treatment that now give hope of a “cure” to the increasing number of older patients who will be affected with this potentially life-threatening and disabling illness. Over the years I have seen many illnesses conquered, although the list of ...

Our October issue of Clinical Geriatrics focuses on several neurological and psychiatric problems including depression in cognitive impairment, depression in stroke, anorexia nervosa, and Parkinson’s disease. This is fitting because October has been designated as National Disability Awareness Month and has within its calendar National Depression Screening Day and World Mental Health Day! At this time of the year, the decline in daylight hours becomes increasingly evident; outdoor activities and social outlets are curtailed for many, and the “winter blues” are fast approaching. It is n...

I recently was reminded of the plight of countless patients who try to balance paying the high cost of prescribed medications with other necessary expenses such as food, rent, and clothing. Not only are the elderly particularly at risk but so are millions of Americans included in the growing number of working poor and medically uninsured.

Ms. LS, one of my patients, is a 78-year-old woman living in the community. She helps out several neighborhood families by caring for young children during the day to allow their mothers to remain employed and to add a small amount to her income fr...

Recent experience has again reminded me that many diseases once believed to be on their way to eradication must not be forgotten, as they may resurface with a vengeance. I had been reminded of this already in 2001 when our hospital took care of several patients exposed to anthrax. We quickly became “experts” on a disease none of us had in fact ever seen. More currently, however, another disease has demonstrated its ability to rise from its downward spiral. Although still a major problem throughout the world, and unfortunately a growing problem once again in the United States, tuberculos...

Like many of you, I consider myself lucky to have trained at a medical school that prided itself in having many outstanding professors, some of whom are still considered to be “giants” in their respective areas of expertise. Although the technology available at that time was less precise and at times more invasive, there was particular focus on detail—taking a thorough history and doing a complete physical examination were the hallmarks of good medical practice. I remember gathering around the bed of a patient as my professor described “interesting wave forms” in the neck; maneuve...