The Maturing of Geriatrics

Abstract

With this issue, the Journal begins a series of "Current Concepts" articles addressing key topics in the clinical practice of geriatric medicine. Why geriatrics, and why now? A revolution in the composition of our population and in the character of our health care system has been in preparation for decades and is now upon us. Demographic, clinical, and fiscal imperatives have forced a greater awareness of older people and their health care needs.¹ The new series in the Journal is evidence that academic medicine has begun to recognize the robust base of scientific knowledge underlying the clinical practice of geriatrics. . . .