Geriatrics
Geriatrics is the branch of medicine focused on the treatment and care of the elderly. There’s no definitive age limit to “elderly”; typically, patients over 65 are eligible for treatment in elder care facilities.
Gerontology
Gerontology is the study of aging and older adults. The science of
gerontology has evolved as
longevity has improved. Researchers in this field are diverse and are trained in areas such as physiology, social science, psychology, public health, and policy. A more complete definition of
gerontology includes all of the following:
Scientific studies of processes associated with the bodily changes from middle age through later life;
Multidisciplinary investigation of societal changes resulting from an
aging population and ranging from the humanities (e.g., history, philosophy, literature) to economics; and
Applications of this knowledge to policies and programs.
With an understanding of
gerontology, an individual can make plans for her or his own life course and needs, and communities and legislators can make necessary public policy choices.
