Geriatrics and gerontology research productivity from South Asian Countries: A bibliometric analysis from the last two decades (2004–2023)

ABSTRACT Background: In the wake of a rising elderly population in South Asia, evaluation of research productivity in geriatrics and gerontology in the South Asian region is imperative for informing healthcare policies and practices for elderly care. Objectives: This bibliometric study explores trends and performance of geriatrics and gerontology research productivity from South Asian countries over the last 20 years (2004–2023). Methods: We obtained research data related to the subject category “Geriatrics and gerontology” from South Asian countries using the Web of Science databases and proceeded to bibliometric analysis using “R-Bibliometrix” to assess the quality and quantity of publications related to geriatrics and gerontology from South Asia. Results: South Asian countries contributed 1042 articles, presenting around 0.97% of the global productivity. India ( n = 904) was the most productive country in the South Asian region. In the latter decade (2014–2023), 770 (73.8%) documents were published from South Asian countries with a steep rise observed after 2018. The Indian College of Medical Research (ICMR) was the top funding source, contributing to 80 publications. Biogerontology was the most consistent source with 93 publications, whereas the most utilized search keywords were Aging, India, and older adults. Conclusion: Our analysis found several distinctive patterns related to top authors’ contributions, impact, productivity, collaborations, funding, affiliations and keyword usage which can benefit relevant stakeholders in interpreting regional trends and performance of geriatrics-related research output.