Behind the Build: Caring for Older Adults with Dr Jessamine Liu
17 Oct 2025
Career Journey
Dr Liu was drawn to geriatric medicine early in her training, captivated by the blend of medical complexity, teamwork, and humanity it requires. “No two patients are alike — each has a story, a lifetime of experiences and often multiple medical and social challenges,” she says. Geriatrics demands both intellect and empathy, combining science, problem-solving, and person-centred care.
Rewarding Moments
“The most rewarding part is helping patients and families navigate a vulnerable stage of life,” Dr Liu explains. From restoring independence after a fall to ensuring comfort and dignity, seeing the relief on patients’ and families’ faces is a daily reminder of why her work matters.
Shaping H Block
Dr Liu contributed to early planning discussions for the new H Block, focusing on clinical flow to ensure patients with the greatest need can access services safely and quickly. She highlights design features like natural light, wider corridors, outdoor spaces, and accessible bathrooms — simple elements with profound impacts on recovery, independence, and wellbeing.
Impact on Patients, Families, and Community
H Block provides a calmer, safer environment for patients, particularly those with cognitive impairments. Families benefit from welcoming spaces that encourage connection, while the wider community gains confidence that older adults are valued and supported within the health system.
Memorable Experience
Dr Liu recalls a patient with delirium after hip surgery. By focusing on personalised care — managing pain, sleep, nutrition, and including familiar items from home — the patient’s confusion eased, and their family witnessed their loved one returning. “Compassion, patience and collaboration can change outcomes in ways medicine alone cannot,” she reflects.
Looking Ahead
The biggest opportunity in older adult care lies in proactive, coordinated, and personalised services that connect hospitals, primary care, and community resources. Meeting growing demand while maintaining high-quality, compassionate care is the challenge, but with innovation and collaboration, Dr Liu believes the health service can empower older adults to thrive.
Self-Care
Outside work, Dr Liu recharges by spending time with her family outdoors — running with her children, exploring Gold Coast beaches and parks, and enjoying quiet moments reading. “These simple routines help me reset and remind me of life beyond medicine,” she says.
Source: Gold Coast Health – goldcoast.health.qld.gov.au
