Definition of geriatric

The word "geriatric" originated in the 19th century from the Greek words "geras," meaning old age, and "iatron," meaning healer or doctor. Initially, it referred to the medical specialty of treating older adults. In the 1830s, British physician Dr. Thomas Beddoes used the term "geriatric medicine" to describe the care of elderly patients. The term gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as people began to recognize the unique medical needs of older adults. Geriatric medicine addressed the physical, psychological, and social challenges of aging, such as age-related illnesses, mobility issues, and social isolation. Today, "geriatric" is used to describe not only the medical specialty but also the broader fields of gerontology (the study of aging) and geropharmacology (the study of the effects of medications on older adults). The term has also expanded to encompass social and support services, such as housing, transportation, and social programs, designed for older adults.