Gerontological Society of America

Gerontological Society of America

The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) is a prominent interdisciplinary organization dedicated to the advancement of research, education, and practice in the field of aging. Founded in 1945, the society aims to promote the study of aging and disseminate information among scientists, decision-makers, and the general public.

History

The Gerontological Society of America was established in 1945 by a group of scholars and practitioners who recognized the need for a dedicated organization to address the complexities of aging. The founding members sought to create a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration and to foster the development of gerontology as a distinct field of study.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of the GSA is to advance the study of aging and to disseminate information among scientists, decision-makers, and the general public. The society's objectives include:

• Promoting interdisciplinary research in gerontology.
• Encouraging the application of research findings to improve the quality of life for older adults.
• Supporting the education and training of professionals in the field of aging.
• Advocating for policies that enhance the well-being of older individuals.

Membership

The GSA offers membership to individuals and institutions interested in the field of aging. Members include researchers, educators, practitioners, and students from various disciplines such as biology, medicine, psychology, sociology, and public policy. The society provides members with access to a wide range of resources, including journals, conferences, and networking opportunities.

Publications

The Gerontological Society of America publishes several peer-reviewed journals that cover various aspects of aging research. These include:

• The Gerontologist
• Journal of Gerontology: Series A
• Journal of Gerontology: Series B

These publications serve as important resources for researchers and practitioners in the field of gerontology.

Annual Scientific Meeting

The GSA hosts an annual scientific meeting that brings together thousands of professionals from around the world. The conference features presentations, symposia, and workshops on the latest research and developments in the field of aging. It provides a platform for networking and collaboration among attendees.

Sections and Interest Groups

The society is organized into several sections and interest groups that focus on specific areas of gerontology. These include:

• Biological Sciences
• Behavioral and Social Sciences
• Health Sciences
• Social Research, Policy, and Practice

Each section provides a forum for members to engage with colleagues who share similar research interests and professional goals.

Awards and Recognition

The GSA recognizes outstanding contributions to the field of gerontology through various awards and honors. These awards acknowledge excellence in research, education, and service, and are presented at the annual scientific meeting.

See Also

• Gerontology
• Aging
• American Society on Aging