How to Learn Gerontology

An education in gerontology will open the door to numerous career possibilities.

Gerontology is the study of the effects of aging. Gerontology encompasses the physical, mental and social changes that occur as people grow older. More people with gerontology skills are needed to help an aging American population. Trained gerontologists and gerontology aides work in hospitals, adult day care, rehabilitation and long-term care facilities. People trained in gerontology can be doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses and gerontology aides in medical and assisted living facilities (see Reference 1).

Things You'll Need

• Education (from high school to medical degree)
• Job training

Instructions

1. Enroll in an accredited college or university that offers a specialty program for gerontology. Choose gerontology to fulfill the residency requirement for medical and nursing students. Choose a bachelor program in gerontology if you do not intend to seek a medical or nursing degree (Reference 1).

2. Enroll in an accredited online study program that provides certification in gerontology. Choose a distance-learning program associated with an established and accredited college or university in your area to take advantage of local counselors and tutors (Reference 2).

3. Discover gerontology by on-the-job training. Find a job as a gerontology aide in a nursing home, adult day-care facility, a hospital or a hospice center. Participate in continuing education opportunities and training programs provided by the employer (Reference 3).

Tips & Warnings

• Volunteer at a nursing home, rehabilitation facility or adult day care to determine if you are well-suited to working with the aged.

• Students may sometimes "shadow" a nurse or a doctor. Ask your school counselor if your school participates in a program where students can observe gerontology workers for a day.

• Not every person is suited to working in the field of gerontology. The aging may suffer from a number of debilitating conditions and diseases that affect the body and the mind, and may become difficult patients.

• Those working in gerontology are working with people who are nearing the end of their lives. Dealing with death may take a considerable emotional toll on gerontology workers.

References

• Southern Illinois University Carbondale; College of Education and Human Services: Why Study Gerontology?
• Online Schools: Gerontology Certification Program
• Bureau of Labor Statistics; Occupational Outlook Handbook 2010-2011; Social and Human Service Assistants

Resources

• California Council on Gerontology and Geriatrics: Gerontology/Geriatrics Education in California
• Weber State University: Gerontology