Gerontology vs Geriatrics: Explaining the Differences for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

If you are interested in pursuing a career in elderly care, you may have encountered the terms gerontology and geriatrics. While both fields are dedicated to supporting the aging population, they differ in their focus and the types of roles they involve.

According to Statista (2025), the U.S. population of individuals aged 65 and older continues to grow, especially with every Baby Boomer reaching 65 by 2030—the need for skilled professionals in these areas is increasing. In line with this, the U.S. elderly care services market was valued at $455.49 billion in 2023, with significant growth expected in the coming years (U.S. Elderly Care Services Market, 2024).

My team and I have closely examined the growing demand for professionals in elderly care, particularly in gerontology and geriatrics. Both fields play crucial roles in addressing the needs of an aging population, yet they differ in important ways.

In this article, we will compare gerontology and geriatrics in-depth, exploring the educational requirements, certification processes, and career paths for each. Additionally, we will discuss the salary expectations and job outlooks, offering valuable insights for those considering a career in elderly care in today's expanding healthcare market.

Key Points of Comparison: Gerontology vs Geriatrics

The nature of the two disciplines vary slightly with geriatricians providing direct medical care to older adults and gerontologists supporting aging populations through research, planning, and services.
Geriatricians, as medical doctors, typically earn higher salaries than gerontologists due to clinical responsibilities. Gerontologists may earn less but can still earn competitive wages in research, education, or policy roles.
Geriatrics offers clinical roles in hospitals, private practices, and long-term care. Gerontology professionals work in diverse fields like social work, program development, academia, and aging policy. Demand is rising in both due to aging populations.

What is gerontology?
What is geriatrics?
What are the main differences between gerontology and geriatrics?
What are the educational requirements for becoming a gerontologist and geriatrician?
What are the certification requirements for gerontologists and geriatricians?
What skills are essential for a successful career in gerontology or geriatrics?
What are the possible career opportunities in gerontology and geriatrics?
Are there opportunities for specialization within the field of gerontology and geriatric care?
How does the salary of a geriatrician compare to that of a gerontologist or other elder care professionals?
How do you choose between a career in gerontology and a geriatrician?
How can specialized nursing education address women's health in elderly care?
How is technology transforming geriatric care and gerontology research?
How are healthcare policies impacting opportunities in elderly care?
How can online educational programs boost career progression in elderly care?
Other Things To Know About Gerontology and Geriatrics

What is gerontology?

Gerontology is the multidisciplinary study of aging and the challenges older adults face. It examines the biological, psychological, and social aspects of growing old. Unlike geriatrics, which focuses on medical care, gerontology considers aging a complex life process. Professionals in this field, called gerontologists, work in diverse settings such as research institutions, community programs, healthcare organizations, and policy-making bodies.

They might study how aging affects memory, mobility, mental health, or social interactions, and use that knowledge to improve the quality of life for the elderly. Gerontology also informs public health strategies, senior housing development, age-friendly communities, and elder advocacy.

Academic programs in gerontology are offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels and may lead to careers in social work, education, public policy, and healthcare support services. In essence, gerontology aims to help society better understand and support the aging population beyond just their medical needs.

What is geriatrics?

Geriatrics is a medical specialty focused on the healthcare of older adults. It involves the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of age-related diseases and complex medical conditions that often affect elderly patients. Physicians in this field, known as geriatricians, are trained to manage multiple chronic illnesses, polypharmacy (use of multiple medications), cognitive decline, frailty, and functional impairments.

They provide holistic care tailored to the unique needs of aging individuals, often coordinating with other specialists, caregivers, and family members. Geriatricians typically complete medical school, a residency in internal or family medicine, and a fellowship in geriatric medicine.

Their goal is not just to treat illness but to preserve independence and quality of life for elderly patients. Geriatrics plays a vital role in long-term care facilities, hospitals, home health services, and hospice care. With the aging global population, the demand for geriatricians is increasing, making this a critical and rewarding medical field.

What are the main differences between gerontology and geriatrics?

Although gerontology and geriatrics deal with aging, they are distinct fields with different goals, training paths, and professional roles. Their main differences are:

Field and Focus

Gerontology is the scientific study of aging, focusing on the physical, mental, emotional, and social changes that occur as people grow older. It is interdisciplinary, combining insights from sociology, psychology, public health, and biology to understand how aging impacts individuals and society.

For example, just as prospective students often weigh the dental assistant vs dental hygienist debate to choose a career that fits their interests and training commitment, those interested in aging must decide which focus best matches their goals.

On the other hand, Geriatrics is a branch of medicine that prevents, diagnoses, and treats diseases and health issues affecting older adults.

Professionals and Training

Gerontologists are not medical doctors. They may be researchers, social workers, health educators, policy analysts, or program coordinators. Their training usually involves degrees in gerontology, social sciences, or related fields.

Meanwhile, Geriatricians are licensed physicians who undergo medical school, residency in internal or family medicine, and additional fellowship training in geriatrics. This distinction is as clear-cut as the common question many face in healthcare careers: "chiropractor vs physical therapist which is better?", where training, scope of practice, and patient focus define the professional path.

Roles and Objectives

Gerontologists aim to improve the quality of life for older adults through research, policy, and community programs. Whereas, Geriatricians manage complex health conditions, enhance physical well-being, and maintain independence.

In essence, gerontology is about understanding aging broadly, while geriatrics is about providing specialized medical care to the elderly. Both are crucial to holistic elder care.

The data below shows that the U.S. population aged 65 and over is projected to reach 63.3 million in 2025 and grow to 71.2 million by 2030. This sharp increase reflects the rapid aging of the Baby Boomer generation. While growth slows slightly after 2030, the elderly population will continue to rise, nearing 80 million by 2045. This demographic shift highlights an urgent and growing demand for both gerontologists, who address the broader social and psychological aspects of aging, and geriatricians, who provide specialized medical care for older adults.

What are the educational requirements for becoming a gerontologist and geriatrician?

The educational paths for gerontologists and geriatricians are significantly different due to the nature of their work—one being non-medical and interdisciplinary, the other a specialized field of medicine.

Geriatrician Educational Requirements

To become a geriatrician, you must first become a licensed medical doctor. The process begins with earning a bachelor’s degree, usually in a science-related or pre-med field such as biology, chemistry, or health sciences. This undergraduate program typically takes four years. After completing a bachelor’s degree, the next step is to attend medical school, which lasts another four years. You will earn either an MD (Doctor of Medicine) or DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) at the end of medical school.

Following medical school, aspiring geriatricians must complete a residency program in either internal medicine or family medicine, which usually takes three years. This residency provides hands-on training in diagnosing and treating adult patients. Finally, to specialize in elderly care, they must complete a geriatric fellowship, which involves 1 to 2 additional years of focused training in the care of older adults.

In total, it takes approximately 11 to 13 years of education and training after high school to become a fully qualified geriatrician.

Gerontologist Educational Requirements

Becoming a gerontologist typically starts with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as a sociology, public health, social work, or biology. Some also consider taking up a clinical psychology degree online. However, many employers, especially in research or program management, prefer candidates with a master’s degree in gerontology or a related discipline. Some academic or high-level policy research roles may require a Ph.D. in gerontology or aging studies. Programs usually include coursework in aging theories, elder care systems, and lifespan development.

An associate degree can also be a good starting point for working with older adults and gaining experience, but advancing to a bachelor’s or master’s degree is essential for more specialized, research-based, or leadership roles in gerontology.

The chart below shows the educational background of gerontologists, with 46.7% holding a master's degree, making it the most common qualification. 40.0% have a bachelor's degree, indicating a significant portion of professionals in entry-level or support roles. Only 6.7% hold a high school diploma or a certificate, suggesting these individuals typically work in more basic or support-focused positions within the field.

What are the certification requirements for gerontologists and geriatricians?

Certification reflects professional credibility and specialization in elder care, but it varies greatly between gerontologists and geriatricians. Gerontologists are not legally required to be certified, but obtaining certification can enhance career opportunities. On the other hand, certification is mandatory and formal for geriatricians. Below are some recognized credentials for these professions.

Credentials for Gerontologists

Certified Gerontologist (CG). Organizations like the National Association for Professional Gerontologists offer the CG certification. Eligibility usually requires a graduate degree in gerontology or a related field and work experience.
Certified Senior Advisor (CSA). This is another optional certification for professionals who work with older adults, covering ethics, health, and financial aspects of aging. These certifications often require passing an exam and completing continuing education.

Credentials for Geriatricians

Geriatric Medicine Board Certification Exam. After completing a geriatric fellowship, physicians must pass this exam administered by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) (for MDs) or the American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine (AOBIM) (for DOs). The exam assesses clinical knowledge in aging-related diseases, pharmacology, care planning, and more.
Maintenance of Certification (MOC). Certification is valid for 10 years and must be maintained through MOC, which includes periodic re-examinations and Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits.
State-approved Medical License. All geriatricians must hold an active, state-approved medical license in the state(s) where they practice. Licensing boards require verification of education, clinical training, exam scores (USMLE or COMLEX), and background checks. Physicians must also fulfill each state's CME requirements to renew their license periodically.

Additional Specialty Certifications (Optional). Geriatricians may also pursue added qualifications to deepen expertise in areas like Hospice and Palliative Medicine (through ABIM or AOBIM) and the American Board of Geriatrics (non-practicing in some regions, but historically recognized).

The fill rates for Geriatric Medicine are declining, with only 41.5% for Internal Medicine and 26.8% for Family Medicine in 2023. This is concerning because the elderly population in the U.S. is growing. Although 419 certified fellowship positions were offered, only 174 were filled, indicating a widening gap between supply and demand. The shortage is especially alarming given the rigorous certification requirements for geriatricians. This situation reinforces the urgent need for certified geriatricians to provide specialized medical care and gerontologists to address the broader psychological, social, and policy-related aspects of aging.

What skills are essential for a successful career in gerontology or geriatrics?

Working with older adults requires a unique combination of technical knowledge, interpersonal sensitivity, and practical problem-solving. Whether you're pursuing a career in gerontology or geriatrics, the following skills are crucial:

Communication skills. Clear and compassionate communication is essential for understanding patient or client needs, explaining complex issues, and working with families and care teams.
Empathy and patience. Aging individuals may face cognitive, emotional, or physical challenges. Professionals must show deep understanding and patience in addressing these concerns with dignity.
Cultural competence. Older adults come from diverse cultural, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Being sensitive to these differences improves the quality of care and support.
Analytical and critical thinking. Gerontologists analyze social trends, policies, or data, while geriatricians diagnose and treat complex health issues—both require strong problem-solving abilities.
Interdisciplinary collaboration. Elder care often involves teams of medical professionals, social workers, therapists, and families. Coordinating effectively across roles is vital.
Advocacy and ethics. Professionals must be prepared to uphold the rights of the elderly and advocate for policies that protect their well-being and autonomy.
Lifelong learning. The fields of aging and elder care are constantly evolving. Staying updated with new research, medical advances, or care approaches is key to professional growth.

What are the possible career opportunities in gerontology and geriatrics?

Gerontology and geriatrics offer various career paths depending on your education, training, and interests. These professions can be found in healthcare, research, social services, public policy, education, and long-term care settings. Besides gerontologists and geriatricians, here are other related professions that you may pursue in the field of elderly studies or care. Additionally, emerging careers in health informatics are becoming increasingly important, as managing healthcare data and improving patient outcomes through technology is vital in elder care.

Career Paths for Gerontologists

Social Worker (Specializing in Aging). Those who have completed an online social work degree for clinical or specialized roles can become social gerontology workers who support older adults and their families in managing the emotional, social, and financial aspects of aging. They help navigate healthcare systems, provide counseling, and assist with end-of-life planning, often working in hospitals, nursing homes, and community settings.

Case Manager (Senior Services). Case managers coordinate healthcare services for elderly individuals, ensuring they receive the appropriate medical and social services. They work with families, doctors, and social workers to develop personalized care plans, assisting with long-term care, insurance, and rehabilitation services.

Aging Policy Advocate. These professionals work with governments, nonprofits, and advocacy groups to influence policy changes related to aging. They focus on issues like healthcare access, retirement security, and elder rights, aiming to improve the lives of older adults through legislative action.

Gerontology Professor/Educator. Gerontology professors teach courses on aging studies at universities, providing future generations with the knowledge needed to work with older adults. They often engage in research and community outreach as part of their academic roles.

Career Paths for Geriatricians

Geriatric Nurse Practitioner (GNP). Those who want to be geriatric nurse practitioners with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field should pursue direct-entry MSN programs online, specializing in geriatrics. They provide primary care, conduct assessments, and manage complex health conditions in older adults, working closely with physicians and other healthcare providers in hospital and outpatient settings.

Physical Therapist (Specializing in Elderly Care). Physical therapists working with elderly patients help improve mobility, balance, and strength, often restoring function after injury, surgery, or illness. They assess physical limitations and develop treatment plans to help older adults maintain independence and prevent falls.

Geriatric Pharmacist. While not universally mandated, completing an on-site or online doctor of pharmacy program is generally considered the standard educational requirement for becoming a geriatric pharmacist. Geriatric pharmacists focus on managing the medication needs of older adults, ensuring that prescriptions are safe and effective. They review medication regimens for potential drug interactions and educate patients and caregivers about proper medication use to prevent complications.

Memory Care Specialist (Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care). Memory care specialists work with individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other cognitive impairments. They provide therapeutic interventions, assist with daily living activities, and create personalized care plans to support the patient’s cognitive and emotional well-being. Those who have completed a Bachelor’s in Nursing, Psychology, or Social Work with certifications in dementia care can work as memory care specialists.

As of 2023, the United States had approximately 21,944 geriatric clinicians, encompassing family medicine, internal medicine geriatricians, and geriatric nurse practitioners. This figure represents an increase of 1,600 providers from the previous year. There are approximately 38 geriatric clinicians (including family medicine and internal medicine geriatricians and nurse practitioners) for every 100,000 adults aged 65 and over, according to America’s Health Ranking (2023). As the number of older adults rises sharply, the limited availability of geriatric clinicians creates significant gaps in care.

This shortage underscores the critical need for a broader range of elder care professionals, not just physicians. Roles such as gerontologists, geriatric social workers, elder care coordinators, geriatric nurses, and long-term care administrators are increasingly essential to support aging individuals' complex medical, emotional, and social needs. Expanding and investing in this workforce will be vital to ensuring quality, accessible care for America’s aging population.

Are there opportunities for specialization within the field of gerontology and geriatric care?

There are several opportunities for specialization within both gerontology and geriatric care. These specializations allow professionals to focus on specific aspects of aging and elder care, depending on their interests and career goals.

Gerontology Specializations

Social Gerontology. This specialization focuses on the social, emotional, and psychological aspects of aging. Professionals in this field study how aging affects individuals' relationships, mental health, community involvement, and quality of life. Social gerontologists often work in counseling, senior centers, or government programs to improve well-being among older adults.
Gerontological Research. Gerontological researchers examine various aspects of aging through scientific studies, such as the impact of aging on society, health disparities among elderly populations, and the effectiveness of elder care policies. Their findings often shape programs and legislation designed to meet the needs of older adults.
Gerotechnology. This emerging field blends gerontology with technology. Specialists develop and evaluate tools such as assistive devices, mobile apps, and smart home technologies that promote independence, safety, and social connection for seniors. Gerotechnologists often collaborate with engineers, healthcare providers, and caregivers.
Long-Term Care Administration. Focused on the management and operation of facilities like nursing homes, assisted living communities, and rehabilitation centers, this specialization prepares professionals to oversee staff, budgets, resident care plans, and ensure regulatory compliance. It’s ideal for those interested in leadership within elder care settings.
Aging Policy and Advocacy. Professionals in this area work to influence and implement policies that support the elderly. This includes advocating for healthcare access, social security, elder rights, and long-term care funding. They may work for non-profits, government agencies, or international organizations, often engaging in community outreach and legislative lobbying.

Geriatrics Specializations

Geriatric Psychiatry. This specialization addresses the mental health needs of elderly patients. Geriatric psychiatrists diagnose and treat conditions like depression, anxiety, late-life schizophrenia, and dementia. They consider the unique neurological and psychological changes of aging and often coordinate with caregivers and other healthcare providers.
Geriatric Cardiology. Focused on heart and vascular conditions that commonly affect older adults, geriatric cardiologists manage diseases such as hypertension, heart failure, and arrhythmias. They tailor treatments to account for the complex health profiles of elderly patients and often work closely with primary care and other specialists.
Palliative and Hospice Care. This area centers on providing compassionate care to patients facing serious or terminal illnesses. Specialists focus on pain relief, emotional support, and enhancing the quality of life rather than curing illness. Geriatricians in this field often work in hospitals, hospice facilities, or in-home care settings.
Geriatric Rehabilitation. Geriatric rehabilitation specialists help older adults recover from surgery, stroke, fractures, or other debilitating conditions. They aim to restore function, prevent falls, and promote independent living using physical therapy, occupational therapy, and tailored exercise programs.
Cognitive and Memory Disorders. Specialists in this field diagnose and manage age-related cognitive conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. They provide care plans, medication management, and support for patients and families, helping them navigate the challenges of cognitive decline with dignity and clarity.

These specializations reflect the diverse needs of the aging population and allow professionals to focus on meaningful, impactful areas of elder care, whether through social support, policy work, medical intervention, or innovative technology.

How does the salary of a geriatrician compare to that of a gerontologist or other elder care professionals?

According to Salary.com (2025), the average annual salary of a geriatrician ($236,615) is nearly identical to that of a gerontologist ($236,633), with only a slight difference. Both professions fall within a very similar salary range—approximately $192,000 to $266,000—with most professionals in both fields earning between $213,000 and $252,000 annually (Salary.com, 2025). This reflects a comparable level of compensation, despite the differences in educational paths and job functions.

However, it's important to note that geriatricians are medical doctors, requiring extensive medical education, licensure, and board certification. In contrast, gerontologists often work in non-clinical roles, such as research, education, social services, or policy development, which may not require a medical degree.

In comparison, other elder care professionals, such as Gerontology Professor/Educator ($70,000–$110,000/year) and Geriatric Nurse Practitioner ($120,000–$135,000/year), typically earn less. For example, community health workers who play a vital role in elder care coordination earn a community health worker salary that usually ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience and location.

Overall, while geriatricians and gerontologists earn similar salaries at the top of the elder care field, other roles in this sector tend to offer lower compensation due to differences in required education, licensing, and scope of responsibility.

Gerontologist salary vary in terms of experience. As per the data below, entry-level gerontologists can earn $227,239 while senior-level gerontologists earn $230,726. This is why continuing education, such as a master's in gerontology degree online, is recommended.

How do you choose between a career in gerontology and a geriatrician?

Choosing between a career in gerontology and becoming a geriatrician depends on your interests, skills, and long-term career goals. Both fields serve the elderly population, but they differ significantly in focus, required education, and professional responsibilities. Here’s how you can decide between the two:

Determine your career focus. If you're interested in the social, psychological, and cultural aspects of aging, gerontology may be the right path. It covers research, education, program development, and policy work related to older adults. On the other hand, if you're drawn to medical care and treatment of elderly patients, geriatrics is a better fit. Geriatricians are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and managing age-related health conditions.
Understand the educational requirements and licensing. A career in gerontology typically requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree in fields like gerontology, social work, or public health. Clinical roles may need additional certifications but not a medical license. In contrast, becoming a geriatrician requires an intensive path: a bachelor’s degree, medical school, residency in internal or family medicine, and a fellowship in geriatrics, followed by board certification and a state medical license.
Decide what type of work you want to do. Gerontologists work in non-clinical environments, such as research centers, government agencies, educational institutions, and nonprofits. Their role often involves developing programs, analyzing data, or advocating for senior rights. Geriatricians, however, engage in direct patient care, managing chronic conditions, prescribing treatments, and coordinating medical services in hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes.
Consider the time and commitment required. Gerontology may take 4 to 6 years of education, depending on the level of specialization. It’s generally more flexible and accessible. Geriatrics requires a longer commitment—at least 10 to 12 years—due to the rigorous medical training involved. This includes passing board exams and maintaining licensure through continuing education.
Reflect on your personal strengths and interests. If you excel in communication, research, social service, or policy analysis, and prefer working on broader aging issues, gerontology is likely a great match. If you're skilled in science, problem-solving, and clinical care, and want a hands-on role in improving elderly health outcomes, geriatrics is a more suitable path.

How can specialized nursing education address women's health in elderly care?

Integrating targeted nursing education within elderly care systems addresses critical women-specific health challenges. Advanced online nursing programs deliver focused clinical training and evidence-based methodologies tailored to managing conditions prevalent in older women, such as cardiovascular issues, osteoporosis, and menopausal complications. Furthermore, these specialized programs promote interdisciplinary collaboration, equipping practitioners with skills to implement preventative strategies and personalized care plans. This focused training is instrumental in optimizing patient outcomes and elevating the quality of geriatric services for women, as illustrated by initiatives like the fastest MSN WHNP programs online.

How is technology transforming geriatric care and gerontology research?

The integration of digital health tools is reshaping both geriatric care and gerontology research. Telemedicine and remote patient monitoring systems enable continuous, personalized care while reducing unnecessary hospital visits. Electronic health records and advanced analytics facilitate real-time decision-making and predictive assessments, leading to improved patient outcomes. Innovative applications of artificial intelligence are streamlining diagnostic processes and optimizing treatment plans. Additionally, technology is enhancing professional education and cross-disciplinary collaboration, offering new pathways for career advancement, such as accessing the cheapest RN to BSN online programs.

How are healthcare policies impacting opportunities in elderly care?

Recent healthcare policies and regulatory reforms are reshaping the career landscape in elderly care by influencing funding, reimbursement models, and workforce training requirements. Regulatory changes are prompting institutions to invest in innovative care models and interdisciplinary collaboration, thereby creating new roles and expanding existing ones. These policy-driven shifts encourage professional development and targeted educational programs that prepare practitioners for emerging challenges in elder care. Institutions also recognize the value of accessible training pathways, such as the easiest state to get into nursing school, to help bridge workforce shortages in this critical field.

How can online educational programs boost career progression in elderly care?

Online educational programs offer a flexible and cost‐effective pathway for professionals to enhance their clinical and administrative skills in elderly care without the constraints of traditional classroom settings. By leveraging advanced online courses and specialized certifications, practitioners can immediately apply new methodologies to improve patient outcomes and adapt to evolving care models. Accredited online options also provide the benefit of up-to-date curricula that integrate technological advancements with practical care strategies. For instance, exploring options like the cheapest FNP program online can expand clinical competencies and support the transition into advanced roles within the field.

Key Findings

The U.S. elderly care services market, valued at $455.49 billion in 2023, highlights the increasing demand for professionals like geriatric clinicians and gerontologists, as the aging population requires more specialized care and support in the coming years.
Geriatrics requires 11-13 years of education, including medical school, residency, and fellowship, while gerontology typically takes 4-6 years for a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
Most gerontologists hold a master’s degree (46.7%), followed by bachelor’s degrees (40%), with a smaller percentage holding a high school diploma or certificate (6.7% each).
In 2023, only 174 out of 419 Geriatric Medicine fellowship positions were filled, highlighting a shortage of specialists amid the growing elderly population.
The average annual salary for both geriatricians ($236,615) and gerontologists ($236,633) is nearly identical, with most professionals in both fields earning between $213,000 and $252,000 annually.

Other Things To Know About Gerontology and Geriatrics

How do gerontologists and geriatricians contribute to improving the lives of older adults?

Gerontologists focus on the social, psychological, and biological aspects of aging, developing programs and policies that enhance the quality of life for older adults. Geriatricians, on the other hand, provide specialized medical care, managing chronic conditions and improving health outcomes for elderly patients, ensuring they receive appropriate treatments for aging-related health issues.

Are there any specific continuing education requirements for gerontologists and geriatricians?

Yes, both gerontologists and geriatricians must engage in continuing education to stay updated in their fields. Geriatricians are required to complete ongoing Continuing Medical Education (CME) to maintain board certification, while gerontologists may pursue professional development opportunities through workshops, seminars, and additional certifications to enhance their expertise.

What ethical considerations are important when working with elderly populations?

Key ethical considerations include ensuring autonomy, informed consent, and confidentiality, as well as addressing issues of ageism, and respecting the dignity and rights of older adults. Care should also focus on preventing exploitation and providing compassionate support while maintaining the patient's well-being.

At what age is geriatric?

The term geriatric typically refers to individuals aged 65 and older, as this is the general age range where significant age-related health concerns and functional decline may begin, though the exact age can vary depending on context.