GSA Speaks Out on Ukraine Crisis
For Immediate Release
March 1, 2022 | Contact: news@geron.org
(202) 587-2839 |
The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) stands in solidarity with the Ukrainian people, the people of surrounding nations, and the global community in condemning the military invasion of Ukraine and calling for an immediate end to hostilities.
GSA is an international organization with members in more than 50 countries across six continents. The Society represents experts on aging, across dozens of scientific disciplines, who work as researchers, clinicians, educators, program administrators, and policy advocates. Aging is an experience that all 7.9 billion people on Earth share.
Many GSA member scientists study the impact of natural and manmade disasters on older people, with an emphasis on preparedness, response, and recovery from these tragic experiences. Gerontological research has consistently shown that older individuals are among those most severely impacted in times of disaster. It also finds that traumas experienced among younger people can lead to poor physical and mental health outcomes later in life.
Regardless of the duration of this invasion and other military conflicts worldwide, the impact of these acts will be felt for many years to come. Each day these conflicts continue causes further irreparable harm to individuals, communities, the environment, and global stability.
Many relief organizations are engaging and welcome support to assist the people of Ukraine during this growing crisis. GSA expresses its gratitude to all who are selflessly working to safeguard human rights and the well-being of those affected by hostilities.
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The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) is the nation's oldest and largest interdisciplinary organization devoted to research, education, and practice in the field of aging. The principal mission of the Society — and its 5,500+ members — is to advance the study of aging and disseminate information among scientists, decision makers, and the general public. GSA’s structure also includes a policy institute, the National Academy on an Aging Society.