Geriatrics, << `jehr` ee AT rihks, >> is the branch of medicine that deals with old age and its diseases. Doctors who are involved in geriatrics diagnose and treat diseases of the aged. In order to do this, doctors must also understand the changes that take place in the human body during middle age that could possibly lead to diseases later in life.
The problems of aging have become increasingly important because more people are living to old age (see Old age). Scientists in several fields work with physicians to deal with geriatric problems. Biologists doing research in gerontology study body processes involved in senescence (aging). Psychologists investigate changes that occur in mental reactions in older people. Sociologists study the role of an aging person in a changing world.
Hospitals and universities in many cities have clinics for treating older people. Medical schools are expanding the study of old-age problems and are training doctors to deal with them. The United States Department of Health and Human Services supports research in aging. Foundations, insurance firms, industries, labor unions, and individuals are giving funds to study the problems of aging.
