Monthly CME

The monthly CME series themed ‘Enhancing Geriatric Care was held on November 7, 2023, at the ClinMarc Auditorium, National Hospital of Sri Lanka. Dr. Kapila Ransinghe, a distinguished Consultant Psychiatrist at the National Institute of Mental Health, delivered a lecturer on “Addressing the Unspoken: Understanding and Managing Sexual Problems in Older Persons.” The event, was well attended by a diverse audience.

This lecture addressed a crucial but often overlooked aspect of healthcare—sexual problems in older individuals. Dr. Ransinghe, recognized for his expertise in psychiatry, delved into the complexities surrounding sexual health in the elderly, shedding light on the various challenges faced by this demographic.

Dr. Ransinghe began by acknowledging the societal tendency to avoid discussions on the sexual health of older individuals. He emphasized the importance of breaking the silence surrounding this topic to provide better holistic healthcare. He further explored the physiological and psychological factors influencing sexual health in the elderly and practical strategies for managing and addressing sexual problems in older persons.
This lecture not only expanded the knowledge base of attendees but also paved the way for continued conversations and initiatives aimed at addressing the multifaceted healthcare needs of older individuals.

Monthly Trainees’ Forum

The Trainees’ Forum for the month of November was held on the 21st of November via ZOOM from 12.30-1.30pm. The event featured two presenters who shared their expertise on unique aspects of healthcare.

  1. Chronic Diarrhoea in an Older Patient: An Uncommon Presentation
    Presenter: Dr. Roneesha Jayawardena Specialty Registrar in Older People’s Medicine Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust. The presentation delved into the complexities of diagnosing and managing chronic diarrhoea in the elderly, highlighting the nuances that differentiate it from more common presentations. Attendees gained valuable insights into the challenges and considerations involved in providing effective care for older individuals experiencing this atypical manifestation.
  2. A Journey Through Palliative Care and Complimentary Medicine 
    Presenter: Dr. Namal Weerakoon Senior Registrar – Geriatric Medicine The presentation provided a comprehensive overview of the principles, practices, and challenges associated with integrating palliative care into the geriatric healthcare landscape. Dr. Weerakoon also explored the role of complementary medicine in enhancing the overall well-being of older patients, offering a holistic perspective on end-of-life care.The November edition of the Trainees’ Forum proved to be a stimulating and informative event, showcasing the depth and diversity of expertise within the field of geriatric medicine.The Trainees’ Forum continues to serve as a vital avenue for knowledge exchange and professional development, fostering a culture of continuous learning among trainees specializing in geriatric medicine.

Regional Meeting - Workshops on Enhancing Geriatric Care

The Sri Lanka Association of Geriatric Medicine (SLAGM) successfully organized its regional meeting in collaboration with the Galle Medical Association in the picturesque city of Galle on November 30, 2023. The event took place at the Karapitiya Teaching Hospital and focused on the theme “Enhancing Geriatric Care – The Role of Nurses and Doctors.” The day included two insightful workshops for medical professionals and a captivating evening lecture on Galle Fort’s heritage.

The day commenced with two parallel workshops tailored for doctors and nurses at the Karapitiya Teaching Hospital. The workshops aimed to address the evolving landscape of geriatric care and underscored the pivotal roles of both doctors and nurses in providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare to the older persons. Eminent speakers and experts in geriatric medicine led the workshops, fostering a collaborative learning environment. The panel of speakers shared their expertise and insights to enhance the participants’ understanding of geriatric care.

As the day progressed, attendees were treated to a fascinating evening lecture on the heritage of Galle Fort. Archaeologist, Mr. Tharanga Liyana Arachchi, took the stage to unravel the historical significance and cultural richness embedded in Galle Fort. The lecture provided a unique opportunity for participants to delve into the rich history of the region, creating a well-rounded experience that extended beyond the realms of medical discussions.

The day concluded with a delightful dinner, offering participants an informal setting to share experiences, and forge new professional connections. The relaxed atmosphere provided an opportunity for attendees to reflect on the day’s learnings while enjoying a pleasant evening in the company of colleagues and peers.

The SLAGM regional meeting in Galle was indeed a fruitful workshop that not only deepened participants’ understanding of geriatric care but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration within the medical fraternity. The event’s success is a testament to the commitment of SLAGM in advancing the field of geriatric medicine and promoting interdisciplinary dialogue among healthcare professionals