[Geriatric assistance: an unresolved health problem]

Although the number of elderly needing health care is increasing in Spain, geriatric patients do not receive enough attention or support when compared to that given in other countries. When the elderly get sick they present peculiar and special problems which should be attended following their needs. Because in hospitals the elderly are cared for in a progressive fashion, geriatrics plays a perfect role in organizing the hospitals and out-patient centers. For the aforementioned, a broad coordination and efficiency within the health centers, units of community social services and the hospital are needed. Geriatric care should be present in the health care system of the government as well as in the private sector.