[Responsibilities of prevention in gerontology].

Multimorbidity is one of the main characteristics of a geriatric patient and not only should, but MUST find utmost consideration in every diagnosis and therapy. Strategies should be developed or those already in use, should be improved, to support a healthy growing into seniority and to prevent the need of nursing care. Examples of measures of primary, secondary and tertiary prevention, which are relevant for the elderly patient are mentioned. In tertiary prevention the emphasizing is focused on fall prevention and the importance of minimizing the fall risk. The five dimensions of health are aims to be achieved in all age periods but above all in old age.