Gerontological Education of Students as a Factor in Overcoming Ageism in Geriatric Medicine

RELEVANCE . The implementation of the national project "Prolonged and Active Life" is one of the priority tasks of the Russian Federation's state social policy, with a key focus on improving geriatric and gerontological care. In this context, enhancing the competence of all professionals working with elderly individuals is of paramount importance. However, practical experience indicates that gerontological ageism remains a frequent issue encountered by elderly patients in medical and social institutions. Consequently, gerontological education, which encompasses an understanding of the natural processes of aging, ethical and deontological attitudes towards the elderly, and the development of gerontological competence, should be integrated into the curriculum of medical universities at the earliest stages of training.