Dr. Hem Phaterpekar on the Impact of Geriatric Psychiatry at Royal Columbian Hospital
At Royal Columbian Hospital, seniors experiencing mental health challenges receive compassionate and specialized care thanks to the work of Dr. Hem Phaterpekar and his dedicated team. Dr. Phaterpekar, Regional Division Head of Geriatric Psychiatry for Fraser Health, leads a multidisciplinary team to provide critical mental health services for older adults across the region.
Supporting an Aging Population with Comprehensive Care
With the senior population growing, Dr. Phaterpekar’s team meets increasing demand by offering both inpatient and outpatient care, including a 20-bed geriatric psychiatry program.
“Our unit is unique in British Columbia, providing specialized care for complex cases that combine physical and mental health needs,” he explains. “This comprehensive approach helps stabilize patients before they transition home or to another healthcare facility.”
In addition to hospital care, some of the team’s geriatric psychiatrists reach out to other hospitals and work closely with community mental health teams, ensuring that seniors have access to the support they need wherever they are.
Innovative Approaches to Enhance Care
To overcome barriers to mental health care, Dr. Phaterpekar’s team is exploring new technologies, including virtual consultations, robotic companions for long-term care, and even artificial intelligence tools. These advancements could make a profound difference in the accessibility and quality of mental health support for seniors.
Dr. Phaterpekar envisions a future where education on diet, exercise, and mental well-being could be shared more widely through community centers and healthcare facilities, allowing older adults to prevent mental health challenges before they arise.
A Message to Donors: Supporting Seniors’ Quality of Life
Dr. Phaterpekar calls on the community to consider donating to mental health services, particularly for seniors who may face unique challenges in accessing resources.
“Seniors aren’t often thought of when it comes to donations,” he shares. “But supporting seniors allows them to live their later years with dignity and quality, and it’s an incredible way to give back.”
With donor support, Royal Columbian Hospital can continue providing life-changing services to the seniors who need them most. Each gift brings us closer to a future where seniors in our community can receive the care and respect they deserve.