gerontology

[jer-uhn-tol-uh-jee, jeer-]

noun

1. the branch of science that deals with aging and the problems of aged persons.

gerontology

/ ˌdʒɛrɒntəˈlɒdʒɪkəl, ˌdʒɛrɒnˈtɒlədʒɪ /

noun

1. the scientific study of ageing and the problems associated with older people Compare geriatrics

gerontology

1. A medical specialty that focuses on the care and treatment of the elderly.

The large number of aging “baby boomers” has increased both the profile and importance of this specialty.

Other Word Forms

• gerontological adjective
• gerontologist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of gerontology¹

First recorded in 1900–05; geronto- + -logy

Example Sentences

"The possibility of translating these findings into humans is very exciting," said Seung K. Kim, MD, PhD, the KM Mulberry Professor and a professor of developmental biology, gerontology, endocrinology and metabolism.

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Now he’s back with his head and sense of humor firmly intact with a special that explores gerontology and the U.S.

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Olshansky, who specializes in demographics and gerontology, warned that while many people see the term "disabled" as neutral, there is still a risk of it being unintentionally pejorative and stigmatizing.

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Prejudice against older adults is nothing new, but “it feels more intense, more hostile” now than previously, said Karl Pillemer, 69, a professor of psychology and gerontology at Cornell University.

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Valter Longo, professor of gerontology and biological sciences at the University of Southern California, said taking a large amount of supplements risked adverse interactions.

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