Introduction to Gerontology and Geriatrics

Study Notes

Gerontology: Study of aging processes and individuals as they grow older.
Geriatrics: Medical care focused on older adults to enhance their health and well-being.

Significant increases in elderly population due to demographic changes.
Longevity Factors: Lifestyle choices, genetics, and access to healthcare significantly influence lifespan.

Homogeneity Myth: Older individuals have diverse health, skills, and personalities.
Cognitive Decline: Not all older adults experience dementia; many remain cognitively sharp.
Frailty and Dependency: Many older adults maintain independence and an active lifestyle.
Financial Burden Myth: Older adults contribute economically through work, volunteering, and caregiving.
Social Isolation: Many older adults have robust social networks and engage in fulfilling activities.
Sexual Interest: Desire and intimacy persist into older age.

Significant demographic shift towards a larger proportion of older adults globally, leading to socioeconomic challenges.

Declining Fertility Rates: Fewer births contribute to an aging population.
Increasing Life Expectancy: Advances in healthcare and living conditions lead to longer lifespans.

Economic Impact: Escalating healthcare costs, pension liabilities, and labor shortages.
Social Implications: Growing demand for elder care services and emphasis on intergenerational relationships.
Demographic Transition: Changes in age distribution and dependency ratios create new societal challenges.
Urbanization Effects: Higher numbers of older adults in urban areas necessitate tailored services.
Family Dynamics: Increased reliance on family caregivers and potential strain on family resources.
Healthcare Preparedness: Necessity for age-friendly healthcare systems and appropriate policies.

Examination of biological, sociological, and psychological perspectives on the aging process enhances understanding.

Wear and Tear Theory: Suggests gradual deterioration and cumulative damage reduce bodily functions over time.
Cross-Linkage Theory: Aging linked to harmful chemical bonds forming between molecules, resulting in tissue stiffness and loss of function.
Free Radical Theory: Aging attributed to oxidative stress from free radicals damaging cells and tissues during metabolism.

Age Stratification Theory: Examines societal roles and expectations of individuals in different age groups.
Life Course Theory: Analyzes how historical and social factors influence aging experiences.
Activity Theory: Advocates for continued engagement in social and physical activities to promote health.
Continuity Theory: Emphasizes the importance of maintaining consistency in habits, preferences, and relationships.
Person-Environment Fit Theory: Focuses on the interaction between individuals and their surroundings to understand adaptation in aging.

Disengagement Theory: Proposes a natural withdrawal from social interactions as one ages.
Socioemotional Selectivity Theory: Highlights older adults' shifts in priority towards emotionally fulfilling relationships.
Maslow’s and Jung’s Theories: Explore human needs and personality development across lifespan.
Erikson’s Eight Stages of Life: Outlines psychological challenges individuals face at various ages.

Suggests all bodily systems gradually deteriorate with age.
Acknowledges limits such as variability in tissue aging and cellular repair processes.

Focuses on chemical changes leading to cross-links that impair molecular functionality.
Tissues lose elasticity due to accumulated cross-links, causing common age-related conditions.

Acknowledges oxidative damage from free radicals as a key factor in aging.
Oxidative stress disrupts cellular integrity and contributes to the aging process.