As people grow older, their healthcare needs often shift. While younger adults may focus on short-term symptoms or preventative care, seniors are more likely to deal with multiple chronic conditions, changes in mobility, and evolving nutritional needs. There may also be new goals around maintaining independence, supporting cognitive function, or managing complex medication schedules.
Healthy ageing isn’t simply about living longer, it’s about preserving quality of life. In this context, many older adults in Australia are exploring healthcare models that take a more holistic view of wellbeing, particularly those that focus on identifying underlying contributors to health concerns rather than only addressing symptoms.
For those seeking this type of support, consulting with a functional medicine doctor in Melbourne may be one way to explore personalised strategies under medical supervision.
What Is Functional Medicine?
Functional medicine is a patient-centred approach that aims to explore the underlying factors contributing to a person’s health issues. It focuses on the interaction between genetics, environment, and lifestyle, rather than treating each symptom or condition in isolation. For seniors, this means taking the time to understand how multiple health concerns may be interconnected from sleep and nutrition to medication use and gut health. Functional medicine practitioners work to identify patterns and develop individualised strategies that support long-term wellbeing. It does not replace conventional care, but may provide additional insight into chronic symptoms or age-related health concerns.
Common Concerns for Older Adults Addressed in Functional Medicine
Older adults often experience a range of symptoms that may benefit from a deeper clinical investigation. Functional medicine approaches these symptoms by looking at broader systems rather than isolated issues. Common areas that may be explored include:
- Fatigue and low energy, which may involve looking at nutrient levels, sleep quality, or hormonal balance
- Memory and concentration, particularly if cognitive changes are subtle or evolving
- Joint pain and inflammation, especially in relation to diet and lifestyle factors
- Digestive concerns, such as bloating or irregular bowel habits
- Cardiovascular risk, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and metabolic markers
- Immune system function, especially in the context of frequent illness or slow recovery
These concerns are assessed in the context of each person’s full health picture.
Nutrient Absorption and Digestive Changes with Age
Ageing can affect how the body absorbs nutrients. Lower stomach acid production, reduced enzyme activity, and changes in gut microbiota may all impact digestion. Medications commonly used by older adults, such as antacids or blood pressure medications, can also interfere with nutrient absorption. Functional medicine places importance on digestive health because it influences the availability of nutrients needed for energy, cognition, and immune function. By assessing gut function and reviewing nutritional status, practitioners may identify areas where gentle support or targeted dietary changes can improve how the body uses food and supplements.
Polypharmacy and Functional Medicine Considerations
Polypharmacy the use of multiple medications is common among older adults and can sometimes contribute to unwanted side effects or interactions. Functional medicine practitioners routinely consider the impact of medications on nutritional status, gut health, sleep, and overall wellbeing. While they do not alter prescriptions themselves, they may work alongside a patient’s GP to ensure that medications and supplements are reviewed as part of a broader health strategy. This collaborative approach can help identify where certain symptoms may be linked to medication use or combinations, particularly in people managing several chronic conditions.
Personalised Health Assessments in Later Life
Functional medicine starts with a detailed exploration of your health history. This includes when symptoms began, how they’ve changed over time, and what life factors may be influencing them. It also considers family history, environmental exposures, stress levels, and sleep patterns. In some cases, functional testing may be used to assess things like nutrient levels, hormone balance, or digestive markers although this depends on clinical need. The aim is to form a clear understanding of what may be contributing to symptoms and to create a health plan that takes into account your unique goals, limitations, and preferences.
Healthy Ageing Strategies Used in Functional Medicine
Supporting healthy ageing involves focusing on long-term, sustainable habits. Functional medicine often includes lifestyle and nutrition-based strategies that are grounded in evidence and tailored to each individual.
Common strategies may include:
- Balanced nutrition, with an emphasis on whole foods, healthy fats, and adequate protein
- Movement, such as walking, strength exercises, or balance training appropriate to fitness level
- Sleep support, through establishing regular routines and limiting disruptions
- Stress management, including breathing exercises, gentle social engagement, or mindfulness practices
- Encouraging meaningful activity, such as volunteering, hobbies, or spending time with family
These strategies are personalised to meet the needs and preferences of each patient, with a focus on what’s realistic and achievable.
Supporting Cognitive Resilience in Older Adults
Cognitive health becomes an increasing concern with age, especially when memory lapses or concentration difficulties begin to affect daily life. While functional medicine does not treat cognitive decline, it may explore contributing factors such as blood sugar balance, inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, or sleep disruptions. Practitioners may assess lifestyle habits that influence brain health, including diet, exercise, hydration, and social connection. Interventions focus on supporting overall wellbeing and maintaining daily function, rather than promising cognitive enhancement. Where needed, patients are referred back to their GP or specialist for further assessment.
How Functional Medicine Can Complement Conventional Care
Functional medicine is not a replacement for standard medical care. Instead, it aims to work alongside conventional treatment by exploring areas that may not be fully addressed in a traditional clinical setting. For example, a patient may already have a diagnosis and prescribed medications but still experience fatigue, digestive upset, or low mood. A functional medicine perspective considers whether additional support through nutrition, stress reduction, or gut health may be beneficial. This integrative approach can help older adults feel more engaged in their care and more aware of the factors influencing their wellbeing.
Is Functional Medicine Suitable for All Seniors?
Functional medicine may be a good fit for seniors who are motivated to explore the root causes of their symptoms and are open to lifestyle-based changes. However, it’s not appropriate for emergency care or urgent medical needs. Some older adults may prefer more conventional approaches, especially if they are already working closely with specialists for complex conditions. Suitability depends on individual health status, goals, and preferences. All care at Clarendon Medical is delivered within a medically supervised framework, and patients are encouraged to maintain regular check-ins with their usual GP or treating team.
Clarendon Medical’s Approach to Senior Care
Clarendon Medical provides a supportive environment where older adults can access personalised care that blends functional and conventional approaches. We take the time to understand your health concerns in context looking at diet, lifestyle, medications, stress, and environmental factors that may be contributing to symptoms. Our goal is not just to manage conditions but to explore ways to support quality of life through safe, medically guided strategies. All treatment plans are developed collaboratively and with an understanding of what’s realistic for you at this stage of life.
FAQs
Q1: Is functional medicine safe for people over 70?
A1: Yes, functional medicine is designed to be tailored to individual health needs, including those of older adults. All care is guided by clinical assessment and overseen by qualified practitioners.
Q2: Do I need to stop taking my current medications to see a functional medicine doctor?
A2: No. Functional medicine works alongside conventional treatment. Any medication changes should only be made by your prescribing GP or specialist.
Q3: Can functional medicine help with general tiredness and aches?
A3: These symptoms can have many causes. Functional medicine aims to investigate potential contributing factors, but outcomes vary, and treatment is never guaranteed.
Q4: Are these services bulk billed or privately billed?
A4: Clarendon Medical operates as a private billing practice. Costs vary depending on the services provided. You’ll be informed of any fees before proceeding with care.
Q5: What’s the first step to getting started?
A5: Booking a consultation allows our team to review your history, listen to your concerns, and determine whether functional medicine may be suitable for your needs.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All healthcare decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified professional. Functional medicine is not a substitute for conventional medical treatment, and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. All services at Clarendon Medical are provided under appropriate medical supervision and in accordance with Australian healthcare regulations.
