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Within The Above Fields Of Classifications There Also Are The Assumptions Of ...

Within the above fields of classifications there also are the assumptions of primary as well as secondary aging (Schulz-Aellen, 1997, pp. 35-56). The former is defined as inherited biological processes which are time dependant, with secondary aging representing a process that is a decline in function(s) as a result and or by product of unfavorable living and or working conditions, along with diseases (Schulz-Aellen, 1997, pp. 35-56). In terms of actively working individuals, occupational health is recognized and has been recognized as an important science since the turn of the 20th century (Schulz-Aellen, 1997, pp. 35-56). Occupational Gerontology represents the blending of these two disciplines (Sterns et al, 1990, pp. 163-178).
Table 1- Position of Occupational Gerontology among Occupational Health and Fundamental Gerontology
(Sterns et al, 1990, pp. 163-178)
Level of Interest
Research or Practical Activities

Occupational Health
1. Implementation of Prevention Programs for Aging Workers (e.g., fitness programs, secondary prevention programs)


2. Changes in the Work Environment of Aging Workers (e.g., ergonomic adaptation, exposure limits)


3. Changes in the Work Organisation of Aging Workers (training, gradual retirement programs)

Occupational Gerontology
1. Studies on the work ability of aging workers


2. Studies on the relationship between work environment and aging workers

3. Studies on the relationship between work organisation and aging workers


Fundamental Gerontology
1. Theories of aging


2. Studies on aging cells, tissues, organisms


Within occupational gerontology there are three branches of research, biological, psychological and social gerontology (Ilmarinen, 1996, pp. 3.17). The aforementioned areas thus can be utilized to reach projected determinations for the maintenance of work ability (Ilmarinen, 1996, pp. 3.17):


The aging worker (health, life style, physical capacity)
The work environment (physical work load), and
The work organization (psychosocial aspects, management, training and education)
Table 2 - Branches of Occupational Gerontology in relation to areas of interest in the maintenance of work ability of older employees
(Sterns et al, 1990, pp.


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