Gerontologii

Gerontologii, or gerontology, is the multidisciplinary study of aging and older people. It encompasses biological, psychological, social, and economic aspects of aging across individuals and populations, with the aim of promoting health, participation, security, and quality of life in older age.

Gerontology is distinct from geriatrics, a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disabilities in older adults. While geriatrics centers on clinical care, gerontology examines aging processes and their social implications from a broad, interdisciplinary perspective.

History and development: The term gerontology was popularized in the early 20th century by the scientist Elie Metchnikoff, who linked aging to biology and lifestyle. The field expanded in the postwar period as populations aged, leading to specialized research institutes, journals, and international associations such as the International Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics and various national societies.

Key subfields and topics: biological aging (cellular senescence, genetics, physiology), epidemiology and public health of aging, social gerontology (family, work, retirement, social participation), psychology of aging (cognitive and emotional well-being), and policy and ethics. Applied areas include gerontechnology, which studies technologies and environments that support independent living; and geriatric medicine, which overlaps with care delivery for older adults.

Education and impact: Gerontology programs offer degrees at undergraduate and graduate levels. Researchers and practitioners work in universities, healthcare systems, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to inform policy, design age-friendly communities, and address issues such as long-term care, pension systems, and healthy aging.