Which area of medicine specializes in the healthcare of elderly people?

The field of medicine that specializes in the healthcare of elderly individuals is geriatrics. This area focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and conditions commonly associated with aging. Geriatricians are medical doctors who have received specialized training in managing complex health issues in older adults, considering their unique physiological and psychosocial needs.

While the term "geriatric medicine" refers to the same practice as geriatrics, the question specifies the area of medicine rather than the term itself. Pediatrics is concerned with the care of children and adolescents, and public health focuses on the overall health of populations rather than individual patient care. Thus, geriatrics is the most accurate choice when identifying the medical specialty dedicated to older adults.