Nova Scotia Health opens geriatric medicine clinic in Dartmouth

Nova Scotia Health has recently opened a new geriatric medicine clinic in Dartmouth, N.S., with the aim of providing better and more timely care for older adults in the area. Dr. Alison Dixon, a geriatrician with Nova Scotia Health, explained that the new clinic will help address the barriers faced by older adults who may have trouble accessing healthcare services due to transportation issues or cognitive impairments.

The opening of the Dartmouth clinic is expected to increase the number of older adults being seen by up to 40%, which is crucial given the aging population in Nova Scotia. The clinic is specifically designed for adults aged 65 and above who are experiencing frailty, dementia, increased falls, or other age-related health issues. Patients need to be referred by their doctor or nurse practitioner to be seen at the clinic, which offers in-person appointments, home visits, and telephone consultations.

Dr. Dixon emphasized the importance of timely care for older patients, as it can significantly impact their quality of life. Issues such as memory problems, mobility issues, and falls can determine whether an older adult can continue to live independently at home or if they may require hospitalization. By providing accessible and specialized care through the new clinic, Nova Scotia Health hopes to improve the quality of life for older adults in Dartmouth and the Eastern Shore.

The geriatric medicine clinic in Dartmouth complements existing clinics in Halifax and Cobequid Community Health Centre, ensuring that older adults in the region have access to comprehensive and timely healthcare services. The goal is to enable older adults to stay at home longer and maintain their independence, ultimately enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life.