Geriatrics is the study of and care of the older population.
Geriatrics and gerontology are two distinct but related fields that focus on the study and care of older adults.:
Geriatrics: Geriatrics is a medical specialty that focuses on the healthcare and management of older adults. It involves the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of diseases and conditions that commonly affect older individuals. Geriatricians are medical doctors who specialize in the care of older adults and have expertise in addressing the unique health needs and complexities associated with aging.
Geriatric medicine encompasses various aspects, including managing chronic conditions, promoting healthy aging, addressing age-related changes, evaluating medication usage, managing functional decline, and coordinating care across different healthcare settings. Geriatricians work closely with interdisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive, person-centered care that takes into account the physical, cognitive, functional, and psychosocial aspects of aging.
Gerontology: Gerontology is a multidisciplinary field that encompasses the study of aging from a broader perspective. It focuses on understanding the biological, psychological, social, and cultural aspects of aging and their impact on individuals and society as a whole. Gerontology involves research, education, and policy development related to aging.
Gerontologists may come from various professional backgrounds, including sociology, psychology, social work, public health, nursing, and more. They study the processes and effects of aging, explore the experiences and needs of older adults, examine social and cultural factors influencing aging, and develop interventions or policies to enhance the well-being and quality of life of older individuals.
While geriatrics primarily focuses on the medical care and health management of older adults, gerontology takes a broader perspective, encompassing various disciplines and exploring the social, psychological, and cultural aspects of aging. Both fields play important roles in addressing the challenges and improving the lives of older adults, but they approach aging from different angles and with different scopes of study and practice.