With an increasingly large portion of our population aged 65 and older, job pro- spects for those interested in gerontology have never been better. Gerontology is the study of aging and the elderly. Gerontologists research and find ways to treat physical, social and mental problems spe- cific to older people.
While many gerontology majors continue their studies in medical or scientific research, there are also plenty of jobs available in education, healthcare administration, government agencies and social services.
Gerontology nurses are specialized RNs who are certified to work with older people. Known as CGNP‘s, they receive addi- tional training and board certification, and are able to diagnose, treat and prescribe medication. Geriatric physicians complete medical school and specialize in the treatment of the elderly. They commonly treat patients with Alzheimer‘s disease, Parkinson‘s, and osteoporosis. Geropsychiatry, or geriatric psychiatry, is a subspecialty of psychiatry that deals with the study and treatment of mental disorders in the elderly. It requires medical school, a four-year residency in psychiatry, and a one-year fellowship in geriatric psychiatry. Dementia and depression are two areas of focus for these physicians. Many Gerontology majors become clinical and research scientists. They test new medications and treatment methods for problems and diseases specific to the older population.
Medical and healthcare services administrators usually need a master‘s degree in healthcare administration. They are responsible for the planning, administration, and supervision of healthcare services. They work as directors of nursing homes, retirement community coordinators, and as home healthcare providers. Geriatric social workers meet with elderly clients and their families, and assist them with finding helpful programs. Other jobs exist in teaching life skills, leading group activities and administering housing within assisted living facilities and senior centers.
In government-related jobs, gerontologists research issues such as access to healthcare and public services for the elderly. They advise politicians on creating new policies and work to improve the regulation of nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
Some gerontology majors continue their careers in education. They educate and raise awareness of the issues the elderly face by writing books and informational pamphlets, holding clinics for physicians and speaking publicly. Becoming a professor of gerontology requires a PhD.
Social scientists study human behavior, and those who work as gerontological so- ciologists focus specifically on the study of elderly behavior, how age affects quality of life, and how the elderly relate to each other and to society. A master‘s degree is required to advance in this field.
Students who are interested in receiving their bachelor‘s degree in Gerontology can expect to take classes in gerontological studies, along with general education requirements such as algebra, biology, and sociology. An internship is also usually required. A master‘s degree is necessary for those who wish to pursue a career in higher education, as a sociologist, or in upper administrative positions. Medical school and nursing certification is required for becoming a doctor or nurse, with additional training to specialize in gerontology.
This career is best suited for those who possess strong written and oral communication skills along with a strong desire to work with and improve the lives of the elderly. Empathy and good listening skills are also important. If you are passionate about helping our older population, con- sider majoring in Gerontology.
Career Paths for Gerontology Majors
- Geriatric Care Manager
- Care Coordinator
- Senior Services Supervisor
- Professor of Gerontology
- Geriatric Psychiatrist
- Social Scientist/Sociologist
- Social Worker
- Gerontology Nurse
- Resident Services Coordinator
- Director of Operations- Assisted Living Facility
- Memory Care Director
- Housing Administrator- Senior Community
- Alzheimer Care Director
- Life Enrichment Specialist
- Senior Activity Center Manager
- Gerontologist (MD)
- Traveling Service Coordinator
- Social Services Specialist
- Personal Care Aide
- Geriatric Laboratory Scientist
The Gerontological Society of America has lots of information on its website, www.geron.org. It also hosts two websites for job-seekers: www.agework.com and www.aghe.org.
