gerontology

American  

[jer-uhn-tol-uh-jee, jeer-] / ˌdʒɛr ənˈtɒl ə dʒi, ˌdʒɪər- /

noun

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

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gerontology British  

/ ˌdʒɛrɒntəˈlɒdʒɪkəl, ˌdʒɛrɒnˈtɒlədʒɪ /

noun

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

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gerontology Cultural  

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

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Discover More

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

Other Word Forms

• gerontological adjective
• gerontologist noun

Etymology

Origin of gerontology

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

Explanation

Doctors and researchers who study the process of human aging call their field gerontology. There is a slight difference between gerontology and geriatrics, which is the the branch of medicine that focuses on the health and ailments of elderly people. Gerontology overlaps with geriatrics, but it is more specifically the science of the aging process as well as the physical and psychological issues that people deal with as they get older. The word gerontology comes from a Greek root, gerōn, or "old man."

Example Sentences

“I think the developers need to find much more budget-friendly models,” said Julie Brown, an Ohio University associate professor of gerontology who teaches courses on the business of aging.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 10, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 22, 2024

Dr. Longo, who is also a professor of gerontology and director of the U.S.C.

From New York Times • Mar. 25, 2024

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.

From Salon • Feb. 12, 2024

Charles Vincent, a completely authenticated case of premature aging, one of the most clear-cut in all gerontology.

From The Six Fingers of Time by Lafferty, R. A.