Fellows-in-Training Newsletter
Tomas L. Griebling, MD
Chair, Fellows-in-Training Section American Geriatrics Society
For the past year, I have had the pleasure of serving as Chair of the Fellows-in-Training
Section of the American Geriatrics Society. It has certainly been a productive
and exciting year for those of us focused on the care of older adults. We
have witnessed continued research advances in the biological and social
sciences related to the normal aging process as well as disorders which
commonly affect the elderly. Shifting global demographics and the growing
needs of older adults in developing countries have captured the attention
of the international community. And in the political arena, the debates
over how to fund programs and services such as long-term care and prescription
medication coverage remain at center-stage.
The field of geriatrics has moved well beyond the traditional realms
of acute and long-term care. Increases in life-expectancy have been accompanied
by an increased emphasis on preventive services, health maintenance, and
palliative care. The areas of health services and administration, quality
of life, and outcomes research have continued to gain prominence. As society
evolves and our older adult population becomes more diverse, the need
for integrated multidisciplinary care will continue to expand. There is
a growing awareness of the need for experts from all disciplines who share
a passion for quality elder care. As a surgical specialist, I am particularly
encouraged by this trend.
The American Geriatrics Society has always taken a leadership role in
advocating on behalf of older adults and those involved in their care.
One of the most exciting new initiatives during the past year has been
the creation of the AGS Foundation for Health in Aging. Introduced at
last year's annual meeting, the Foundation is designed to serve as a vital
link for communication and understanding between health care professionals
and the public. The AGS is at the forefront of efforts in geriatrics education,
research, and public policy. As health care providers specializing in
the care of older adults, I strongly encourage you to take an active role
in these efforts.
As we stand on the brink of the 21st century, I am reminded of
the words of one of my college history professors. He said that
if someone graduated from school completely satisfied with what
they had learned, then the educational system had failed. But if
one graduated not only with a sense of accomplishment, but also
a realization of how much there is yet to learn, then the system
has succeeded. We have certainly come a long way in our understanding
of the aging process and the needs of older adults in our global
society. However there is still so much to learn and discover. It
promises to be a most interesting journey.
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