The proportion of the US population over age 65 years has been increasing and is expected to continue to increase. Geriatric patients account for about 20% of emergency department (ED) visits and about 30% of observation unit (OU) patients. A geriatric-focused OU is well suited to serve the needs of the elderly patient. Commonly utilized services include geriatrics, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, pharmacists, case managers, and other specialized consultants which may otherwise be difficult to access after-hours or in the ED. Arranging for a comprehensive assessment during a short observation stay avoids an unnecessary and potentially dangerous hospitalization (which exposes vulnerable patients to an increased risk of nosocomial infections, pressure ulcers, deconditioning, deep vein thrombosis, etc.) while still allowing for a period of hospital-based care and observation.