The geriatric patient in ecological perspective.

A hallmark of family medicine is the concern for the individual in the context of family and local community. For the geriatric patient in particular, these concerns far exceed the capabilities of the traditional biomedical model. A problem-solving approach to clinical problems is proposed which extends beyond pathophysiology to include biographical and ecological considerations. A case of an older couple is presented that serves to illustrate the importance of a multilevel approach to patient care and management.