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Field of Gerontology

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Field of Gerontology
Field of Gerontology
Deborah Quinn
HCS/548
December 1st, 2014
Professor Cynthia Hovland-Scafe
The field and study of Gerontology The field of gerontology is the systematic study of the health and well-being of the elderly. Study and research in gerontology help us to understand the health of the elderly but also our own. Everyone will benefit from the study of gerontology on social issues. Gerontology helps provide an individual with the opportunity to compose a plan for their future needs as they age. The study of gerontology allows us to look at our beliefs, moral values, and our lifestyle. People that study gerontology do it for the enjoyment of learning about aging, but others have a practical or professional concern. When legislators, researchers, society, and the local community have an understanding of gerontology policy changes can be made. Making public policy decisions and changes play a significant role in the growth of the elderly population.

According to "What Is Gerontology?" (n.d), the Census the elderly population has grown by 10% since 2006. As the elderly population increase, the demand for professional in this field will be in high demand. The study of gerontology provides and understanding on the aging process from middle age to the later years. Gerontology helps us to understand all aspect of aging that includes, the physical, mental, environmental, demographic, and social.

Societal acceptance Society have experienced changes in the United States and other countries with the aging population. The elderly population has presented society with challenges that and issues of concern. To meet the challenges of helping the elderly live a healthier, long, active, and independent life, society must rethink of a better approach towards the aging population. The companion of the aging population in today’s society is very different from the younger generation. During the past several decades society have experienced



References: Berridge, C. (2012). Envisioning a Gerontology-Enriched theory of Care (27): 8-21, doi: 10.1177/0886109912437498. Czaja, S. J., & Sharit, J. (2009). The Bridge. Washington, DC: National Academy of Engineering. Moreira, T., & Palladino, P. (2009). Aging between gerontology and biomedicine. BioSocieties, 4(4), 349-365. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S1745855209990305 Novak, M. (2009). Issues in aging (2nd edition). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson/Allyn & Bacon. What is Gerontology? (n.d). Retrieved from https://www.publichealth.uga.edu. Zaidi, A. (2014, November). Hard evidence: which is the best country to grow old in? The Conversation, ().

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