Gerontology and How to Get a Job As a Gerontologist

Gerontology is a field that specializes in the study of the social, biological and psychological aspects of elderly people. By researching aging process of the elderly, gerontology can incorporate better rules and regulations to provide the elderly with a better quality of life.

Gerontologists are trained and licensed health care professionals who work with elderly people. They are equipped to analyze all aspects of aging individuals with the exception of disease and sickness. These healthcare professionals generally work in many different settings where aging individuals can be found. Nursing homes, hospitals, and other settings are where gerontology is practiced.

Gerontologists are required to educate and inform the older population by giving speeches, presentations and by providing resources such as writing books, articles and other literature that will increase the knowledge of the elderly individuals. People who pursue a career in this field will have a love of communication and be able to communicate effectively. He or she must be dedicated about the wellbeing of the older population.

There are many different kinds of gerontologists. There is the research gerontologist that researches and analyzes how the aging process affects people in different type of settings. They then use their findings as a means to understand and to enhance the lives of the senior citizens. Those in applied gerontology interact with the older people by communicating and providing assistance to them, their families and anyone they interact with on a daily basis.

In the area of administration, there are administrative gerontologists who are trained to provide management skills by creating programs and services that will be beneficial to the elderly. They help to keep the programs that are already in place running properly.

Gerontologists can have a degree in any related field. A degree in psychology, nursing, sociology, teaching and any other socially related degree can be used to enter this career.

Work Environment:

Gerontologists are able to work in many different types of employment places including nursing facilities, assisted living centers, hospitals, and health offices. They can also teach at schools and colleges and even with other professionals in the health industry to provide a better quality of life for the elderly.

Education:

For those who are interested in pursuing this career will need to take coursework in biology, geometry, algebra, and chemistry while in high school. Bonus courses would be English, psychology and any course that will better prepare you for making the transition from high school to college with a specialization in gerontology.

College Requirements:

A career as a gerontologist requires a high diploma or a GED. Training requires college and university coursework in any field that relates to sociology. A completion of a Bachelors and even a Masters degree is needed to become a gerontologist. Before becoming a licensed and practicing gerontologist a clinical internship may also be required.

Requirements do vary according to which discipline of gerontology you are majoring in; it is best to check with your school to make sure you are fulfilling the requirements necessary for your career.

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