Chennai, 30th September 2024: Geri Care, a leading elder-care services provider, today inaugurated the “Geri Care Geriatric Conclave 2024,” a first of its kind congregation of specialist geriatricians, geriatric oncologists and practitioners with keen interest in this emerging space. This conclave is also hosting the 1st Asian Geriatric Oncology Society Conference through these two days. The conclave is being organized in partnership with apex bodies in the field of geriatrics and oncology, the Indian Association of Geriatrics (IAG) and the Asian Geriatric Oncology Society (AGOS).

This Geriatric Conclave was inaugurated by Dr. K Narayanasami MD, DM- Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of the Tamil Nadu Dr MGR Medical University, Chennai. The inaugural event witnessed the participation from luminaries in the space including Padmashri Dr. Ravi Kannan- Director, Cachar Cancer Hospital & Ramon Magsaysay Award 2023 winner, Dr AB Dey- Former HOD of Geriatric Medicine AIIMS, Dr Purvish Parikh- President of AGOS, Dr Surekha V- President of IAG alongside Padmashri Dr. VS Natarajan, regarded as Father of Geriatrics in India.

On this occasion, the Guest of Honor, Padmashri Dr. VS Natarajan, regarded as the Father of Geriatrics in India, said, “Despite our elderly population exceeding 40%, there is a critical shortage of geriatricians and training programs. Medical focus has shifted from infectious to non-communicable diseases affecting older adults, such as dementia, heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, and ‘silent’ cancers. Early detection offers hope, as cancers like breast and prostate can be effectively treated if caught early. This highlights the need for community awareness and proactive health screenings. Institutions must introduce geriatric nursing courses, and community outreach, especially in rural areas, is crucial for early diagnosis and better management.”

While addressing the conclave, the Chief Guest, Dr. K Narayanasami MD, DM- Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of the Tamil Nadu Dr MGR Medical University, Chennai, said, “As we face the demographic transformation to an ageing society, adapting healthcare, social frameworks, and policies is crucial. India currently has over 130 million elderly, expected to reach 319 million by 2050. This presents challenges and opportunities, urging us to ensure these years are enriching and dignified. Geriatrics plays a vital role in managing chronic conditions and enhancing life quality. It is encouraging to see the commitment to geriatric research and education. Furthermore, as the Father of Geriatrics emphasized, the University is ready to initiate courses in geriatrics and geriatric oncology, which is already under process. This will help us train qualified professionals to care for our ageing population. Let us lead with compassion and innovation for a more inclusive future.”

Dr. Lakshmipathy Ramesh, Founder & Managing Director, Geri Care Health Services Pvt Ltd, said, “Geriatrics as a clinical specialty is nascent in India. However, with a rapidly growing ageing population, expertise in this field is the need of the hour. This first of its kind annual conference is aimed at rallying the community of medical professionals across clinicians and academia towards making the practice of geriatrics mainstream. This will play a crucial role in how we holistically treat and deliver wellness to the elderly with the dignity, compassion and care they deserve in their golden years.”

Dr. Rejiv Rajendranath, Senior Consultant Oncologist at Geri Care Hospitals and Organising Chairman of the Conclave, said, “Geri Care is proud to host this first of its kind conference for the medical fraternity in the country. We have seen an overwhelming response from doctors across the country and the world who are joining us to share and learn from the best practices in the field of geriatrics and geriatric oncology. We believe this is a big step towards shaping the future of geriatrics in our country and in creating global benchmarks in elder-care.”

The 2-day conclave has attracted 70+ faculty members from India and around the world who will be leading panel discussions and hands-on workshops on a broad range of topics in Geriatric Medicine, useful for the 250+ practicing physicians and postgraduates in attendance. Over 25 original scientific papers will also be presented through these two days. The conference will have a special focus on Geriatric Oncology, which will help the Oncology professionals and trainees to broaden their knowledge in this emerging field.