Geriatric Trauma Patients: What is the Difference?

Geriatric population is the fastest growing segment of the total population. They represent about 12 % of the US population. By the year 2030 it has been esti-mated that 19 % of the population will be older than 65 years. Currently elderly are more active and independent that increases the risk of trauma. Elderly are unique in their responses to trauma injury. The age-related physiological changes affect elderly ability to withstand trauma stress and increase the incidence of complications and deaths. Trauma surgeons and staff awareness of age-related changes and challenges will improve trauma-related outcomes in geriatric trauma patients.