What’s the difference between a geriatrician and a gerontologist?

Geriatrics and gerontology are two fields of study that focus on ageing and the elderly. The terms gerontology and geriatrics are often used interchangeably, however, there is a distinction between the two. Gerontology is the study of ageing, whereas geriatrics is the study of elderly illness and disease. Although the emphasis of these fields differs, i.e., geriatrics in health and elderly care and gerontology in ageing, both aim to comprehend ageing so that individuals can attain a high quality of life.

What Exactly Is Geriatrics?

Geriatrics is the medical speciality concerned with the treatment & care of seniors. There is no set age limit for being "elderly"; typically, patients over the age of 65 are eligible for medical therapy in elder care facilities.

What Exactly Is Gerontology?

The study of the elderly and ageing, including the changes occurring as people reach middle age, is known as gerontology. As the average life span has increased, researchers have had more time to examine the effects of ageing on individual subjects, increasing knowledge in the field. The field provides insights into attempting to deal with an ageing population by combining this research in a scientific framework.

Similarities and Dissimilarities

The primary distinction between the two specialities is that geriatricians are fully trained physicians who treat age-related disorders directly. Although applied gerontologists may build long-term relationships with their patients that include coordinating diet, exercise, and cognitive therapies, gerontologists play a much more supportive and educational role.

Through coursework and continuing education, geriatricians, registered nurses, social workers, psychologists, as well as other carers can earn gerontology credentials, broadening & deepening their skills in caring for the elderly. Gerontologists and geriatricians may collaborate in research or elder-care settings, each bringing expertise to the care plan.

Medical advances and senior living facilities have resulted in increasingly better living conditions for the elderly. Geriatrics and Gerontology now provide older adults with the basic care & medical treatment they require to live long and healthier lifestyles.

Visit healthywrinkles if a loved one or a person you are working with needs help with any geriatric care.