Five myths about gerontology dispelled by a University of Idaho professor

Aging is a universal experience, yet many common misconceptions about growing older — and the field of gerontology itself — exist everywhere. Most people assume gerontology only relates to health care, end-of-life care or geriatrics and overlook that it’s a multidisciplinary area that influences every part of society.

Let’s debunk five common myths about aging with Sue Anderson, an associate professor of gerontology at University of Idaho. Anderson explores why gerontology matters and discusses how U of I’s online Master of Science (M.S.) in gerontology degree program prepares future professionals to meet the needs of an aging population.

1. Myth: Gerontology is just for health care professionals

Reality: Gerontology applies to nearly every industry.

Many people hear “gerontology” and immediately think of doctors, nurses and nursing homes. Gerontology extends far beyond the health care industry. Gerontology professionals can design age-friendly communities, shape policies for older adults, create innovative products using AI and even ensure accurate portrayals of aging in media.

“No matter what major you had at the baccalaureate level, gerontology is a field you can step into and shape your path,” Anderson said.

Gerontologists contribute to enhancing the aging experience in countless ways.

2. Myth: There’s little career opportunity in gerontology

Reality: The demand for gerontology professionals is rapidly growing.

Over the next 30 years, people 65+ are anticipated to make up about 25% of the U.S. population. As a result, the need for gerontology professionals is skyrocketing.

“Any place there’s an older person, there’s a place for a gerontologist,” Anderson said.

Aging isn’t just a demographic trend — it’s reshaping economies, industries and communities.  As the U.S. population ages, so do opportunities for professionals who think ahead, solve challenges and create a more supportive world for older adults. There’s a way to apply gerontological principles to your career, no matter whether your background is in business, social work, health care or even engineering.

Learn more about what you can do with a master’s in gerontology.

3. Myth: Gerontology and geriatrics are the same thing

Reality: Geriatrics is a medical specialty in the broader field of gerontology.

The terms “gerontology” and “geriatrics” are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same. Gerontology is the study of aging from biological, psychological and social perspectives. It explores how people age and how society can better support them.

Geriatrics is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating health conditions in older adults. While geriatrics plays an important role in aging-related care, it’s just one piece of the much larger field of gerontology.

When thinking about gerontology vs. geriatrics, you can imagine gerontology as the bigger bucket in which other aspects of aging, including policy, psychology, neuroscience, technology, design, social services and more, all fit.

4. Myth: Gerontology only deals with end-of-life care

Reality: Gerontology focuses on the entire aging process, not just the later years.

While gerontology includes research and care for late-life and end-of-life services, the field also focuses on promoting healthy, active aging at all stages of life, helping individuals maintain well-being for as long as possible. After all, aging isn’t something that begins at retirement — it’s a lifelong process.

This holistic approach examines how biological, psychological and social factors interconnect to influence aging. For example, a physical health challenge may lead to emotional struggles like stress or anxiety. Over time, those feelings could cause someone to withdraw from social activities, leading to loneliness and isolation. Gerontology works to address aging from every angle, ensuring people have the support and resources they need to stay safe and engaged.

“We want every candle on a birthday cake to be something worth celebrating. So, gerontology’s focus is how to help older adults live well,” Anderson said.

5. Myth: Aging means decline and dependence

Reality: Many older adults remain active and independent.

Aging is often portrayed as a time of inevitable decline, but it’s time to change that outdated narrative. Many older adults continue to lead vibrant, independent lives, contributing to their communities, pursuing new hobbies and even going back to school or starting new careers. Advances in medicine, technology and support systems enable people to maintain their quality of life for much longer than before.

With the right knowledge and resources, aging can be a time of growth rather than decline. As more people live longer, the field is evolving to support aging well, emphasizing preventative care, community engagement and lifelong learning. Gerontology helps reframe aging as an opportunity rather than a burden.

What gerontology is

Many of the myths about gerontology come from a limited understanding of what it covers. Gerontology is about helping people live healthier and the many ways aging intersects with daily life. It’s in the technology that allows older adults to stay connected, the policies that shape retirement and the communities designed for lifelong independence. It’s a field that touches every part of society, making it one of the most impactful career paths today.

Redefine gerontology with University of Idaho

University of Idaho’s online gerontology master’s degree gives you the flexibility, expertise and creativity to apply gerontology in ways that matter. This program helps you turn your passion for helping others into real-world impact, including advancing in your current career or exploring new opportunities. Here’s how:

• Flexible learning: Complete your degree entirely online. There’s no need to put your life or career on hold.
• Customizable curriculum: Tailor your education to your interests with a variety of elective courses.
• Personalized capstone experience: Design a capstone project that aligns with your specific career goals and allows you to practice using gerontological principles.
• Faculty support: Learn from expert instructors who challenge you to discover new ways to improve the aging experience. 

The myths are busted: It’s your turn to make a difference

Now that you know the truth about gerontology, join the movement to reshape how society supports older adults. Too often, this growing population is overlooked, but gerontology professionals are changing that. And you can, too.

Request information and apply now to University of Idaho’s online Master of Science in gerontology degree program.