Portraits of Brazil: where do we stand in 2025? – Geriatrics and Gerontology

Geriatrics and gerontology in Brazil have their roots in the 1950s, with the foundation of the Brazilian Society of Geriatrics in 1961, which incorporated gerontology in 1969. From the 1980s onward, regional chapters expanded, but growth in membership accelerated markedly after 2020, driven by rapid population aging and the increasing number of professionals entering the field. In 2025, this scenario was discussed during the “Portraits of Brazil” session at the Brazilian Congress of Geriatrics and Gerontology. Currently, Brazil has approximately 3200 board-certified geriatricians, most of whom are concentrated in large urban centers in the Southeast region. There are no precise data on the number of specialists in gerontology. The demand generated by the 33 million older adults exceeds the current care capacity, a challenge compounded by the lack of an integrated care network. Despite these constraints, technological innovations have emerged as promising tools to expand access and improve the quality-of-care delivery. In conclusion, although the field is expanding, it continues to face significant challenges, including workforce shortages and geographic concentration. Technology emerges as a key ally in addressing these barriers and promoting more efficient and comprehensive care.