Ranjeev Kumar, Singapore

Tan Tock Seng Hospital with the support of Section of Geriatric Emergency Medicine (GEM) under Academy of Medicine, Singapore successfully organized the first National GEM Seminar on the 27th of October 2023. The seminar convened an interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals comprising doctors, nurses and allied health professionals from various institution all over Singapore who have a keen interest in Geriatric Emergency Medicine.

The seminar explored and addressed distinct challenges associated with care of the older person in the emergency department and delved into nuanced clinical considerations essential for providing effective and compassionate care to this group of patients. Topics encompassed identification and management of geriatric specific conditions, including frailty, cognitive impairment, delirium, falls and geriatric trauma, polypharmacy, and atypical presentation in the elderly. Presenters underscored the significance of a multidisciplinary approach emphasizing collaborations among emergency physicians, nurses, and allied health professionals. Discussions highlighted strategies for enhancing communications with older patients, tailoring interventions to their unique needs and fostering a supportive environment in emergency settings.

By promoting awareness and education on geriatric emergency medicine, the seminar aimed to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high quality, age-sensitive emergency care, ultimately improving the overall well-being of older adults during critical medical situation.