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Gerontology Lays The Foundation For Success For Caregivers in Escondido
You may have heard the term “gerontology” before, but do you know what it means? This field of science is critically important to all who work with the elderly, and it helps professionals like Escondido in-home caregivers in countless practical ways. Gerontology has fascinated scientists and philosophers since ancient times, and people who study it feel that they have only begun to scratch the surface of the mysteries of aging.
What is a Gerontologist?
The term “gerontology” comes from two Greek roots: “Geron,” or “old person,” and “logia,” or “to study.” So, literally, it is “the study of old people.” Scientists in this field actually divide their focus between a huge number of different fields, examining the effects of aging on all aspects of society. Gerontology is primarily concerned with observation and research, while geriatrics emphasizes the practical aspects of caring for seniors.
The Effects of Gerontology on Caregivers in San Diego County
While the average person may not have much interaction with gerontologists, the results of their study affect us in real ways. Caregivers in San Diego County use the knowledge that scientists provide to improve their service in nutrition, safety, communication, and many other areas. Statistics show that the centuries spent studying aging have paid off in longer life spans and higher quality of life for seniors, and those benefits will be appreciated even more as the baby boomers enter their retirement years.
Plenty of Work Ahead
Even considering the great advances in gerontology so far, there is plenty of work ahead in the field. Many times, unlocking one mystery only leads to more. For example, discovering the identities of diseases like cancer and Alzheimer’s disease has made it clear that they should be at the forefront of scientific research for years to come. San Diego County caregivers need all the help they can get in understanding and helping their clients understand aging. And as our society ages, the interaction of seniors with other age groups will become an everyday issue for the majority of Americans.
Originally posted 2012-08-16 10:30:27.