Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is a Geriatric Center?

Marco Sumayao
Marco Sumayao

A geriatric center is an establishment that caters to the specific needs of elderly people. These centers usually feature a pharmaceutical dispensary, a nursing staff, and activities geared toward encouraging socialization within and outside of the geriatric community. Senior citizens can opt to live in the center for a fixed monthly rate, although it is not uncommon for others to drop by the center on a day-to-day bases. Some residents in a geriatric center might be forced to live there, however, as a result of limited support from their families or the inability to be physically or mentally independent.

The main goal of a geriatric center is to improve the quality of life for the elderly. As the human body ages, nutritional and medical demands increase. In some cases, aged individuals become unable to address these needs on their own. Visiting a geriatric center allows them to obtain the medications and medical help they need to continue a functional and comfortable life.

Geriatric clinics are staffed by medical professionals who specialize in treating the elderly.
Geriatric clinics are staffed by medical professionals who specialize in treating the elderly.

Many of the medications made available at geriatric health centers deal with common issues faced during late senescence. These include memory aids, appetite stimulants, and essential vitamins and minerals. Treatments for incontinence and tremors are also commonly available. Certain medications that address specific medical and psychological disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and depression, can be provided for residents suffering from the conditions. Medication at a geriatric center is usually strictly controlled; patients receive a predetermined set of pills or syrups at scheduled times of the day.

Staff members may offer physical support when residents need to move around.
Staff members may offer physical support when residents need to move around.

Most geriatric centers employ a sizable nursing staff to assist patients with their daily activities. The nurses often provide physical support when residents need to move about, sometimes even helping them go about their daily routines. The orderlies also maintain and uphold the center's safety guidelines to guarantee no harm is done to the residents, whether self-inflicted or otherwise. In some centers, the staff can facilitate regular exercise routines and social events to keep spirits up among the aged.

Volunteers at a geriatric center may provide emotional support.
Volunteers at a geriatric center may provide emotional support.

Residents and guests at a geriatric center can opt to participate in recreational activities organized by the staff. These events often include low-energy games such as bingo and poker. Field trips can also be scheduled if the residents desire outdoor activities. A recreational center typically contains a common room for socialization, in which individuals can come together to chat or watch television. At times, the center might welcome visitors from socially-conscious organizations hoping to provide some recreation for the residents.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Geriatric clinics are staffed by medical professionals who specialize in treating the elderly.
      By: WavebreakMediaMicro
      Geriatric clinics are staffed by medical professionals who specialize in treating the elderly.
    • Staff members may offer physical support when residents need to move around.
      By: Lisa F. Young
      Staff members may offer physical support when residents need to move around.
    • Volunteers at a geriatric center may provide emotional support.
      By: Sandor Kacso
      Volunteers at a geriatric center may provide emotional support.
    • Research suggests that brain fitness reduces the risk of dementia in elderly people.
      By: absolut
      Research suggests that brain fitness reduces the risk of dementia in elderly people.
    • The main goal of a geriatric center is to improve the quality of life for elderly individuals.
      By: Hakan Kızıltan
      The main goal of a geriatric center is to improve the quality of life for elderly individuals.
    • A geriatric center provides elderly residents with meals as well as access to dieticians.
      By: Grafvision
      A geriatric center provides elderly residents with meals as well as access to dieticians.