Why it can be difficult for older adults to find a geriatrician

Q. My mother recently was diagnosed with early dementia during her annual visit with her doctor. I would like a second opinion from a geriatrician in my area. I am having difficulty in finding one. Can you help? D.J.

 The challenge you describe is both a local and national one. Here is the fact: We have a profound shortage of geriatricians. 

There currently are 7,300 board-certified geriatricians in the U.S. to care for over 55 million older adults. That’s roughly one geriatrician for every 10,000 geriatric patients.