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Geriatric: meaning, definitions and examples

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geriatric

 

[ˈdʒɛrɪˌætrɪk ]

Definition

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from the Greek words 'geras,' meaning 'old age,' and 'iatros,' meaning 'physician.'
  • It first appeared in English around the late 19th century, becoming more common in medical contexts.

Historical Origins

  • Historically, geriatric care emerged as a medical specialty in the 1940s, primarily to address the needs of aging World War II veterans.
  • The first geriatric departments in hospitals appeared in the 1950s, focusing on rehabilitation and managing chronic illnesses.

Pop Culture

  • Geriatric themes are explored in movies like 'The Bucket List,' where elderly characters seek adventure and meaningful experiences.
  • The concept of aging has been represented in literature, such as in the character of King Lear, reflecting the challenges and wisdom of old age.

Science

  • Research in geriatric medicine emphasizes understanding the biological changes that happen as individuals age, influencing health care practices.
  • Studies have shown that regular physical activity can greatly enhance the quality of life for older adults.

Psychology

  • The psychology of aging explores how cognitive functions can change, highlighting the importance of mental engagement and social interaction.
  • Positive psychology focuses on promoting well-being among the elderly, recognizing the value of life experience and resilience.

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

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.