Phoenix Home Care & Hospice believes in new beginnings and a commitment to improving the quality of life for our clients. Many of our in-home health clients are elderly people who want to stay in their own homes. In today’s blog, we answer the question, “What is gerontology?”
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What is gerontology?
The word itself comes from Greek “geron,” or “old man,” and “logia,” or “study of.” Gerontology is different from geriatrics, which means the medical care of elderly people.
Gerontology is the formal study of the aging process in individuals. Gerontologists may study the physical, social, and mental changes people experience as they grow older. Gerontologists also study societal changes due to aging populations, and they apply this research to create policies and programs for elderly care standards.
Three major concerns emerge from gerontology:
- How things change when humans age
- Differences within and among generations
- How people experience things as they age, even in the same generation
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Who works with gerontologists?
Gerontology draws from several disciplines to achieve results. Biologists study the physical changes that humans undergo as they age, including what happens in the brain and body. Social scientists, social workers, and psychologists examine the emotional and mental aspects of aging.
Medical professionals are at the front lines of gerontology as they care for the elderly, including doctors, nurses, and skilled health workers who make sure older people have the best quality of life in their Golden Years for elderly care.
How do these disciplines work together to achieve the best elderly care?
Academic study in gerontology produces new and valuable medical research about service for elderly care patients. Once these studies are published, healthcare workers examine them to see if they need to change their elderly care service to achieve better outcomes. Psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers also consult these studies to ensure their mental health services are informed by current, evidence-based research.
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Quality Elder Care From Phoenix Home Care
Phoenix Home Care prides itself on quality elderly care for our clients. We provide the best care so you or your loved one can achieve new beginnings among familiar surroundings. Contact Phoenix Home Care or call toll-free 1-888-830-2388 if you have questions about our elderly care services.
