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Geriatric: meaning, definitions and examples

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geriatric

 

[ ˈdʒɛrɪˌætrɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

health care

Geriatric refers to the branch of medicine or social science that deals with the health and care of older adults. This field focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of age-related conditions, as well as the complex issues that arise from the aging process. Geriatric specialists are trained to address various physical, mental, and social aspects of elder care. The goal is to improve quality of life for older patients and help them maintain independence for as long as possible.

Synonyms

age-related, elderly care

Examples of usage

  • The hospital has a dedicated geriatric ward.
  • She is a geriatric nurse with many years of experience.
  • Geriatric assessments can help identify specific needs of elderly patients.

Translations

Translations of the word "geriatric" in other languages:

🇵🇹 geriátrico

🇮🇳 वृद्धावस्था से संबंधित

🇩🇪 geriatrisch

🇮🇩 geriatri

🇺🇦 геріатричний

🇵🇱 geriatryczny

🇯🇵 老年医学の

🇫🇷 gériatrique

🇪🇸 geriátrico

🇹🇷 geriatrik

🇰🇷 노인 의학의

🇸🇦 شيخوخة

🇨🇿 geriatričtí

🇸🇰 geriatričný

🇨🇳 老年医学的

🇸🇮 geriatrični

🇮🇸 geriatrískur

🇰🇿 геронтологиялық

🇬🇪 გერითრიული

🇦🇿 geriatrik

🇲🇽 geriátrico

Etymology

The term 'geriatric' is derived from the Greek words 'geras', which means old age, and 'iatros', meaning physician. The use of the word in the medical field began in the early 20th century as the understanding of aging and its effects on health became more prominent. Initially focusing solely on physical aspects, geriatric medicine has evolved to encompass a holistic approach that addresses mental and emotional health. Its development has paralleled the increasing elderly population and the need for specialized healthcare tailored to seniors. As people are living longer, the demand for geriatric care continues to grow, leading to advancements in research, treatment protocols, and the importance of social services dedicated to improving the well-being of older adults.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,705, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.