Study Guide: Introduction to Gerontology – D399 (WGU)
This study guide is designed to help you prepare efficiently for
Introduction to Gerontology – D399 at Western Governors University.
Gerontology is the multidisciplinary study of aging, older adults, and the
systems that affect them. This course typically focuses on biological,
psychological, social, and policy-related aspects of aging.
1. Core Concepts of Gerontology
Gerontology vs. Geriatrics
Gerontology = Study of aging and older adults from multiple
disciplines.
Geriatrics = Medical specialty focused on healthcare of older adults.
Why Gerontology Matters
Growing aging population
Increased life expectancy
Healthcare workforce demand
Long-term care needs
Social policy changes
Key Terms
Aging: Process of biological, psychological, and social change over
time.
Life expectancy: Average years a person is expected to live.
Longevity: Length of life.
Morbidity: Presence of disease.
Mortality: Death rate.
2. Demographics of Aging
Trends
Increasing population age 65+
1
, “Oldest old” = age 85+
Lower birth rates + longer lifespan = aging society
Diversity in Aging
Know differences in:
Race/ethnicity
Gender
Socioeconomic status
Geography
Family structure
Dependency Ratio
Number of dependents compared to working-age population.
3. Biological Aspects of Aging
Normal Age-Related Changes
Cardiovascular
Reduced cardiac output
Stiffer blood vessels
Respiratory
Decreased lung elasticity
Lower oxygen exchange efficiency
Musculoskeletal
Loss of bone density
Reduced muscle mass (sarcopenia)
Nervous System
Slower reaction time
Mild memory retrieval slowing
Sensory
2
, Vision decline
Hearing loss (presbycusis)
Common Chronic Conditions
Hypertension
Diabetes
Arthritis
Dementia
Osteoporosis
Theories of Biological Aging
Wear-and-tear theory
Cellular aging/telomere theory
Genetic programming
Free radical theory
4. Psychological Aspects of Aging
Cognitive Changes
Slower processing speed
Short-term memory changes
Crystallized intelligence often remains stable or improves
Mental Health
Depression is not a normal part of aging
Anxiety can occur
Suicide risk higher in some older male groups
Dementia vs Delirium vs Depression
Conditio Reversibl
Onset Notes
n e?
Dementia Gradu Usually no Memory + function
3
This study guide is designed to help you prepare efficiently for
Introduction to Gerontology – D399 at Western Governors University.
Gerontology is the multidisciplinary study of aging, older adults, and the
systems that affect them. This course typically focuses on biological,
psychological, social, and policy-related aspects of aging.
1. Core Concepts of Gerontology
Gerontology vs. Geriatrics
Gerontology = Study of aging and older adults from multiple
disciplines.
Geriatrics = Medical specialty focused on healthcare of older adults.
Why Gerontology Matters
Growing aging population
Increased life expectancy
Healthcare workforce demand
Long-term care needs
Social policy changes
Key Terms
Aging: Process of biological, psychological, and social change over
time.
Life expectancy: Average years a person is expected to live.
Longevity: Length of life.
Morbidity: Presence of disease.
Mortality: Death rate.
2. Demographics of Aging
Trends
Increasing population age 65+
1
, “Oldest old” = age 85+
Lower birth rates + longer lifespan = aging society
Diversity in Aging
Know differences in:
Race/ethnicity
Gender
Socioeconomic status
Geography
Family structure
Dependency Ratio
Number of dependents compared to working-age population.
3. Biological Aspects of Aging
Normal Age-Related Changes
Cardiovascular
Reduced cardiac output
Stiffer blood vessels
Respiratory
Decreased lung elasticity
Lower oxygen exchange efficiency
Musculoskeletal
Loss of bone density
Reduced muscle mass (sarcopenia)
Nervous System
Slower reaction time
Mild memory retrieval slowing
Sensory
2
, Vision decline
Hearing loss (presbycusis)
Common Chronic Conditions
Hypertension
Diabetes
Arthritis
Dementia
Osteoporosis
Theories of Biological Aging
Wear-and-tear theory
Cellular aging/telomere theory
Genetic programming
Free radical theory
4. Psychological Aspects of Aging
Cognitive Changes
Slower processing speed
Short-term memory changes
Crystallized intelligence often remains stable or improves
Mental Health
Depression is not a normal part of aging
Anxiety can occur
Suicide risk higher in some older male groups
Dementia vs Delirium vs Depression
Conditio Reversibl
Onset Notes
n e?
Dementia Gradu Usually no Memory + function
3
