The Institute of Gerontology is the hub for coordinating and conducting The University of Georgia's education, research, and outreach services associated with the study of aging and older adults. Through its 30-plus member university-wide Faculty of Gerontology, the Institute collaborates with educators and researchers within Georgia, regionally, nationally, and internationally.
Printer-friendly version
Email this page
Gerontology is the study of aging and older adults. Long life is a direct result of public health. The science of gerontology has evolved as longevity has improved. Researchers in this field are diverse. Our students are trained in basic science, social science and statistics. Our graduates work in public and private sector jobs. With these tools, we create the solutions needed by our society.
While gerontology can be described as either "the study of aging," or 'the scientific study of old age," a more complete definition includes all of the following:
“Gerontology is multidisciplinary; that is, it includes the perspectives of numerous disciplines concerned with the physical, mental, and social aspects of life,” and geriatrics is a specialty within a field that “includes the study of health and disease in later life and the care and treatment of older persons.”
“Although gerontology and geriatrics have differing emphases, they both have the goal of understanding aging so that people can be helped to maximize their functioning and achieve the highest quality of life.”
Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (2004). Careers in Aging: Opportunities and Options, p. 3
Gerontology is the scientific study of aging and older adults from a biological, psychological, and social perspective. This interdisciplinary field of study is extremely important as we will be challenged to meet the needs of an increasingly-growing number of older adults in the coming years, as people are living longer. In fact, the fastest growing age group are those aged 85 and over. Therefore, the demand for professionals with expertise in aging is also growing rapidly. Career opportunities in gerontology and geriatrics are numerous and varied.
Serving the Citizens of Georgia
The Institute of Gerontology at the University of Georgia is the hub for coordinating and conducting the University's education, research, and outreach services associated with the study of aging and older adults. Through its 30-plus member university-wide Faculty of Gerontology, the Institute collaborates with educators and researchers statewide, regionally, nationally, and internationally.
Photo credit: © Administration on Aging
Support the Institute of Gerontology
