According to the Centers for Disease Control, the population of the United States is aging at an unprecedented rate; by 2030, approximately 72 million members of the population, or nearly 20%, will be age 65 or older. Along with the aging of the population will come a great need for physicians and providers trained in the special needs of the older population, from the physical and medical changes that accompany aging to the unique psychosocial needs of older adults.

Older people over age 65 also account for more than half of the nation's hospital usage and a significant share of other medical services as well. An older patient may see an average of ~15 physician visits across various specialties and sites each year. In order to care for the unique needs of this rapidly growing audience, graduating medical students must have the knowledge and understanding of geriatric medicine. Providing effective and compassionate care in various settings and restoring health and function of older patients through various therapies is essential. Goals of care and care plans must be based on each individual patient, with an understanding that function and quality are usually the most important aspects (calling for palliative care vs. aggressive treatment).

The geriatrics elective offers students an opportunity to evaluate geriatric patients with a variety of medical problems. Students will have the opportunity to provide comprehensive and team-based care to older adults, as well as have more focused problem-based encounters. Through this unique experience, the medical students will be equipped with a body of knowledge and experiences to carry forward into future professional endeavors (e.g. residency).