Abstract:In this article, we introduced the updating concepts of successful aging and the model of health care for the elderly. We strengthened that the focus of modern geriatrics has shifted from “disease” to “human being”. Thus, the goal of geriatrics is not only to prevent and treat geriatric diseases, but more importantly, to maintain the elderly’s body functions, such as their physiological and cognitive functions, and to sustain mental health through psychological rehabilitation, so as to realize “successful aging”. One of the step to attain the goal is to make a comprehensive geriatric assessment in the concept of modern geriatrics. We also discussed inappropriate medication prescribing, multimorbidity in the elderly, and the progress and challenges in the prevention and treatment of common geriatric diseases.