Definition

1. Noun:
   • The scientific study of aging and the elderly: Gerontology is the multidisciplinary field that examines the biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging. It focuses on understanding the process of aging itself and the experiences of older adults, rather than solely on diseases.

Usage

• Gerontology is used as a singular, uncountable noun to refer to the academic discipline or field of study.
• Example:

Examples

Advanced Usage

• Gerontological (adjective): Pertaining to the field of gerontology.
  • She attended a gerontological conference.
• Gerontologist (noun): A specialist or researcher in the field of gerontology.
  • The gerontologist published a paper on cognitive changes.

Variants and Related Words

• Geriatrics: A related but distinct field; geriatrics is the branch of medicine focused on the health care, treatment, and prevention of diseases in older people.
• Geriatric (adjective): Relating to old age or the care of aged persons.
  • Geriatric medicine is a clinical application of gerontological knowledge.

Synonyms

• Study of aging
• Science of aging

Notes on Meaning

While often mentioned alongside geriatrics, gerontology has a broader scope. Gerontology is the overarching study of the aging process, including its social and psychological dimensions. Geriatrics is a medical specialty within healthcare that applies this knowledge to treat older patients. The reference definition provided aligns more closely with geriatrics.

Noun

1. the branch of medical science that deals with diseases and problems specific to old people