Half a century of UK gerontology research, theory, policy and practice are under the spotlight in this landmark critical review of the subject that places the country’s achievements in an international context. Drawing on the archives of the British Society of Gerontology and interviews with dozens of the most influential figures in the field, it provides a comprehensive picture of key developments and issues and looks to the future to plot new directions in thinking. This is the story of the remarkable progress of gerontology, told through the eyes of those who have led it.This is the story of the UK’s world-class advances in gerontology research and theory, told through the eyes of the people who led them. Using interviews with dozens of influential academics and the archives of the British Society of Gerontology, it charts past developments, current issues and future directions in thinking in the study of ageing.