Living Well After 55

Grob, Scheri, Woodburn & Griffin Helping Patients Make the Most of the Years Ahead

By Genesis Medical Associates

Turning 55 can feel less like slowing down and more like entering a new chapter. For many adults, these years are filled with travel, grandchildren, new hobbies, retirement plans, and finally having more time to enjoy life. Staying healthy enough to make the most of those years, however, often requires becoming more intentional about health care.

At Grob, Scheri, Woodburn & Griffin Family Medicine, a division of Genesis Medical Associates, the focus is not simply on treating illness. It is on helping patients preserve their health, mobility, and independence for as long as possible.

As we move through our 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond, the relationship with a trusted primary care physician becomes increasingly important. Changes in cardiovascular health, metabolism, bone and joint health, and mobility can become more common after age 55. Some conditions develop gradually and without obvious symptoms, making regular preventive care an important part of healthy aging.

Prevention Becomes the Priority

One of the greatest advantages of having an established primary care physician is having someone who understands your health history and can recognize changes over time.

Regular visits allow physicians to monitor trends in blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and other health indicators before they become bigger concerns. For adults over 55, recommended preventive care may also include mammograms, colonoscopies, prostate cancer screening, lung cancer screening for qualifying patients, bone density testing and cardiovascular screening. Vaccinations for illnesses including flu, shingles and pneumonia can also become increasingly important with age.

For Eric S. Griffin, DO, MPH, prevention has been a central part of his career. Dr. Griffin, who has been with Genesis Medical Associates since 2014, has a Master of Public Health from the University of Pennsylvania and previously created preventive health programs while serving as a Peace Corps volunteer.

“I am passionate about preventative health, immunizations, and putting into practice the concept of Value and Quality Based Healthcare,” Dr. Griffin has said.

Doctors Who Understand Every Stage of Life

The physicians of Grob, Scheri, Woodburn & Griffin bring decades of experience caring for patients and families throughout the Pittsburgh region.

Daniel K. Grob, MD, has practiced with Genesis Medical Associates for more than 25 years. Board-certified in family medicine and a Certified Medical Director in Long-Term Care, Dr. Grob also serves as Medical Director for Concordia at Rebecca Residence in Allison Park. Early in his career, he was influenced by a mentor who showed him the rewards of developing long-term relationships with patients and caring for multiple generations of the same family.

Tad D. Scheri, MD, has been a member of Genesis Medical Associates for more than 20 years and has served as president of Genesis since 2019. He is Chair of Primary Care at UPMC Passavant Hospital and has repeatedly been recognized among Pittsburgh’s Top Doctors.

Mark Woodburn, MD, is board-certified in family medicine and enjoys caring for patients of all ages, including geriatric patients. A Pittsburgh native and North Allegheny graduate, Dr. Woodburn also has special interests in dermatology, sports medicine, and injections.

Together with Dr. Griffin, the physicians offer something that becomes especially valuable later in life: continuity. Instead of looking at one symptom or one appointment in isolation, a longtime PCP can see the bigger picture.

When Health Care Gets More Complicated

After 55, health care can also become more complex. A patient may have several specialists, multiple prescriptions or chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes or arthritis. A hospitalization can suddenly add new medications and follow-up appointments to an already complicated routine.

That is where Genesis Medical Associates’ team-based approach can make a difference.

At Grob, Scheri, Woodburn & Griffin, physicians are supported by a broader Genesis care team. Quality Advocates help patients remain current with recommended screenings and wellness initiatives, while pharmacists and pharmacy technicians can help patients understand medications, address safety concerns, and identify potential cost-saving opportunities.

For someone taking several medications, this additional oversight can be particularly valuable. Clinical pharmacists and chronic care nurses can assist with reviewing medications, avoiding interactions, and helping patients manage chronic conditions.

Genesis also offers Transitional Care support following hospital or emergency room visits, as well as Care Management services for patients facing more complicated medical or social needs. Nurses and social workers can assist with everything from specialist follow-up and community resources to transportation needs and long-term care planning.

Adding Life to Your Years

Perhaps the most important message for adults over 55 is that aging and declining health do not have to go hand in hand.

Regular movement, good nutrition, preventive screenings, appropriate medications, and strong social connections can all contribute to maintaining physical and mental health. Small changes made today can have a significant impact on how we feel years from now.

And having a primary care practice that knows you, not simply your medical chart, can provide an important foundation for that journey.

At Grob, Scheri, Woodburn & Griffin, the goal is to help patients not simply live longer, but remain active, engaged, and independent enough to enjoy the years ahead.

Grob, Scheri, Woodburn & Griffin Family Medicine

Genesis Medical Associates

Pittsburgh Office:1140 Perry HighwayPittsburgh, PA 15237

Wexford Office:4001 Stonewood Drive, Suite 200Wexford, PA 15090

Phone: (724) 935-5330

Website: genesismedical.org