Field of Gerontology

HCS 548 - Foundations of Gerontology

Gerontology is a fairly new multidisciplinary field focusing on several aspects of the aging process. Gerontologists study the aging process of the physical, mental and social changes in our aging population. Gerontology also includes investigating the effects on society resulting from our aging population.

As humans, we are constantly trying to deny the fact that we are aging. As young adults, we see that the aging process is so far away in the distance, and never really are prepared for it when it creeps up and starts to hit us. Then, middle age approaches and we are clearly faced with the reality of our changing body. It may begin with subtle changes, but because of societies social pressure we try everything we can to...