Jesse Katz, MD 'Ageism in Healthcare'

Geriatric Medicine Grand Rounds - May 19, 2023
"Ageism in Healthcare"
Jesse Katz, MD
Fellow
Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine
University of Washington

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My own family member experiences and has experienced significant ageism, in reference to surgery; very safe, efficient, and timely surgical possibilities. Age should not be a factor in surgery, especially if they had recent surgery, or relatively recent surgery and other factors that have shown that they can, in fact, heal safely, and have the support they require before, during, and after surgery. This is particularly valuable and in their best interests if the surgery can save or extend their life and ability to live a high-quality life. This has even occurred in reference to physical therapy to increase her mobility, flexibly, or even strength or regain the ability that already is underneath the surface. I believe strength is important as is continues to be shown as a major factor in keeping the body and brain connections strong. Of course, it's up to the person themselves, and they should be greatly considered in the decision-making process by being provided a wealth of information, consults, and accurate medical surgery records, and hope. The idea that it can be an awe-inspiring, cautiously courageous, confidence-building, rewarding journey and process; a learning process, perhaps a success finding process, and not a negative pointless search.