Geriatric medicine and rehabilitation focus on common goals: the restoration and maintenance of maximum function. Using the biopsychosocial model rather than the traditional medical model, a more complete picture of the older adult is obtained by the health care practitioner. If we remain vigilant in monitoring and improving our patients' functional abilities we can enhance their inde pendence, and thus their quality of life. Key words: geriatrics, rehabilitation, function, activities of daily living.
