What field pertains specifically to medical problems and care of the elderly?

The field that specifically pertains to medical problems and care of the elderly is geriatrics. Geriatrics focuses on the healthcare of older adults, addressing the complex health issues that arise with aging, including chronic conditions, mental health, mobility, and social factors that influence health. Geriatric care emphasizes a holistic approach, considering not just the physical health of elderly patients, but also their psychological, social, and environmental contexts, which are crucial for effective treatment and improving quality of life.

Pediatrics, on the other hand, is concerned with the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents, while oncology focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Cardiology deals with disorders of the heart and blood vessels, which are relevant to patients of all ages, but does not specifically target the elderly as geriatrics does. Therefore, geriatrics is the distinct specialty that addresses the unique medical needs and challenges faced by the aging population.