Successful Aging: What is a geriatrician, and how do I know if I need one?

Q. I am concerned about my father who is 83 years old. He is sometimes forgetful and confused, unsteady on his feet, sleeps a lot and periodically is withdrawn. Add to that he doesn’t like doctors. Assuming I can convince him to see one, do you recommend a geriatrician? What exactly do they do and where can I find one? Many thanks. M.S.
Dear M.S.
Finding a geriatrician, particularly one that is board-certified can be difficult.
Let’s first describe geriatricians: They are medical doc