In the SPICES Geriatric Syndrome Markers, what does the first 'S' stand for?

The first 'S' in the SPICES Geriatric Syndrome Markers stands for sleep disturbances. This is a crucial aspect of geriatric care as sleep quality significantly affects the overall health and well-being of elderly patients. Poor sleep can lead to various physical and psychological issues, including increased risk for depression, cognitive decline, and impairments in daily functioning.

Addressing sleep disturbances is vital in geriatric assessments, as these issues are often prevalent in older adults due to various factors such as comorbidities, medications, or changes in circadian rhythms. By identifying and managing sleep disturbances, healthcare providers can improve the quality of life for older adults, making it an essential component of the SPICES framework.

The other options presented do relate to health issues that can affect the elderly, but they do not represent the first 'S' in the SPICES acronym, which specifically highlights the importance of sleep.