Geriatrics, or geriatric medicine, is a specialty that focuses on health care of elderly people.[2] It aims to promote health by preventing and treating diseases and disabilities in older adults. There is no set age at which patients may be under the care of a geriatrician, or geriatric physician, a physician who specializes in the care of elderly people. Rather, this decision is determined by the individual patient's needs, and the availability of a specialist. It is important to note the difference between geriatrics, the care of aged people, and gerontology, which is the study of the aging process itself. The term geriatrics comes from the Greek γέρων geron meaning "old man", and ιατρός iatros meaning "healer". However, geriatrics is sometimes called medical gerontology.

Geriatrics is the specialty focused on the high-quality, person-centered care we all need as we age. “High-quality care” aims to improve health, independence, and quality of life for older people. “Person-centered care” puts our personal values and preferences at the heart of our care decisions.

Geriatrics is the branch of healthcare that focuses on our unique needs as we age. Just as pediatricians specialize in the health needs of children, geriatricians and fellow geriatrics health professionals specialize in the health needs of older people.

Many of us will experience unique health conditions and concerns as we grow older. Geriatrics healthcare professionals are specially trained to help us manage our well-being so we can continue to maintain health and independence for as long as possible. For example, after age 65, more than half of us are likely to live with three or more medical problems such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, or high blood pressure. In addition, some older adults may live with additional health considerations, such as problems with mobility and difficulty performing daily activities. These factors create medical challenges that geriatrics healthcare professionals can help address.