This month features an interview with Mary Ann Kuzma, M.D., associate professor in the Division of Internal Medicine at Drexel University College of Medicine. Kuzma has an added certification in geriatrics, which is defined as the medical care of patients ages 65 and older. During the interview, Kuzma discusses caring for the older adult population – a group she says has particular health needs and concerns.

“This is the year many of our baby boomers are beginning to turn 65,” says Kuzma. “And as we get older, chronic illnesses such as high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, and diabetes tend to become more common. In addition, older patients are often on many different kinds of medications, which need to be closely monitored by a physician.”

During the interview, Kuzma also offers advice on what to look for if someone is concerned about an aging parent or grandparent. “Be aware of what’s going on in the house – if the house is looking dirty, if mom or dad is losing weight, if they’re starting to fall. These could be signs of a more serious problem.”

To listen to the Drexel Medcast™ featuring Dr. Mary Ann Kuzma, visit www.drexelmed.edu/medcast. The Medcast can also be downloaded via iTunes and other podcasting directories. Drexel University College of Medicine launched the Drexel Medcast in 2007, becoming the first medical school in the Philadelphia region to offer a monthly medical podcast. A new topic and faculty member are featured each month.