geriatrics

American  

[jer-ee-a-triks, jeer-] / ˌdʒɛr iˈæ trɪks, ˌdʒɪər- /

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. the branch of medicine dealing with the diseases, debilities, and care of aged people.

2. the study of the physical processes and problems of aging; gerontology.

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geriatrics British  

/ ˌdʒɛrɪˈætrɪks /

noun

1. (functioning as singular) the branch of medical science concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting older people Compare gerontology

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geriatrics Scientific  

/ jĕr′ē-ăt′rĭks /

1. The branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and conditions of the elderly.

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Usage

The term geriatric medicine is often used nowadays in preference to geriatrics

Other Word Forms

• geriatrician noun
• geriatrist noun

Etymology

Origin of geriatrics

First recorded in 1905–10; geriatric, -ics

Example Sentences

In March 2023, Schmidt met with George Hennawi, the MedStar system’s physician executive director of geriatrics and senior services, as well as others, including a pharmacist who went through her medications.

From The Wall Street Journal

Do not be fooled by suggestions Australia have unveiled a list of geriatrics, ready to shuffle off to a cricketing retirement home, tending the garden in their baggy green caps.

From BBC

She worked in geriatrics previously, but is interested in exploring work in a birthing or neonatal unit.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s not the age that will limit you, but your cardiovascular health,” said Dr. Gina Fernandez, an assistant professor at Dartmouth’s medical school who specializes in geriatrics.

From Seattle Times

“As people get older, they need more sleep rather than less,” said Dr. Alison Moore, a professor of medicine and the chief of geriatrics, gerontology and palliative care at the University of California, San Diego.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• infirmity