A Career In Gerontology

In recent decades, Americans are living longer than they once did, and are required to work past what is considered average retirement age. The updated life expectancy for men is predicted to be at 77.1, and women will be at 81.9 years by 2020 (University of Southern California , 2017). Considering the changes in life expectancy, the economy and individuals working past middle age, maintaining health and wellness while maturing has become quite challenging. Between 2010 and 2020 those who are over the age of 65 and still working are projected to have an 80% increase, and only anticipated to advance more within the coming years (University of Southern California , 2017). The changes in the society, and economy that are effecting the ageing

process aren’t the only reasons as to why gerontology is of importance and needed to be understood. Just the consistent physical and mental changes that one goes through over the lifespan if vital as well.
Moreover, that is why the Gerontology field is of such importance, and is expected to thrive over the years. Gerontology is the in-depth study of adults as they develop, age, and encounter problems over their lifespan. The Gerontology field covers the societal changes of ageing individuals, programs, policies, and much more (Institution of Gerontology, 2017). Those who are Gerontologist are diverse in numerous topics such as biology, psychology, science, policy, technology, and sociology (University of Southern California , 2017). The overall goal of individuals in this field is to assist the ageing population maintain their customary quality of life through studying and researching the various transformations that take place within aging individuals.
Gerontology is a multidisciplinary practice that is a mixture of science and art that has changed millions of seniors lives through education, research, and development (University of Southern California , 2017). Individuals in this field are not just needed in the health care industry but also in a variety of other fields. As humans mature and grow older they still need assistance and services provided to meet their many needs and specialties for the elderly. Many of these services consist of caregivers, physical fitness specialist, therapists, interior designers to design homes to meet the needs of the elderly, and more (Careers in Psychology, 2017). This essay will briefly discuss the educational background, work environment, careers, and job outlook of those in the gerontology field.
What education (degree) is needed in order to become a Gerontologist?
For those who have made the decision to pursue a career in gerontology early, it is recommended that students as soon as high school should complete and excel in chemistry, geometry, biology, English, social studies, and medical education profession courses to set a good foundation before college (Health Careers Center, 2017). Upon completion of high school and applying to colleges there are many routes for one to take in pursuit of becoming a Gerontologist. There are numerous colleges and universities that offer programs in gerontology in undergraduate and graduate studies.
However, if the university or college does not offer a gerontology program specifically, since gerontology is a multidisciplinary career there are a variety of fields that that one can study on the path to this career. Gerontologist often hold bachelor degree’s in nursing, nutrition, psychology, exercise physiology, pharmacy, sociology, and any field that is related to social services (Doctorly , 2017). Also, many universities and colleges offer degree programs with a concentration in gerontology or related sub fields. At a minimum to begin working in the gerontology field or seek employment one must attain a bachelor’s degree to work entry level occupations.
Upon completion of undergraduate studies to qualify for a more advanced position that allows more in-depth study one must compete their master’s degree. Individuals who complete a master’s program and are in the gerontology field are qualified for more job opportunities along with higher paying salary options. Similar to those who complete a Ph.D. in Gerontology, they too are given more options in regards to salary and employment opportunities. The completion graduate studies usually require an internship and clinical experience in the field.
Additionally, there are also some institutions that offer gerontology research programs at postdoctoral levels for those interested (Health Careers Center, 2017).

Currently there are no mandatory licensures or accreditation necessary to become a Gerontologist. However, there are certifications available for individuals who specialize in another field, and looking to pursue and occupation dealing with the elderly (SeattlePI, 2017).

What are some of the fields and careers related to Gerontology?

In the Gerontology field, there are three main career types of careers available for one to pursue. These three positions are Gerontologists, Gerontology workers, and Gerontology specialists (All Psychology Careers, 2017). Gerontologists specialize and are more focused on the reasoning behind ageing process in humans and its scientific process (All Psychology Careers, 2017). Gerontologists normally went to a college or university and actually attained a degree in

Gerontology.
Gerontology workers are those who may not have specialized in or studied gerontology in school. However, they are the ones who directly work with the elderly in their current occupation (All Psychology Careers, 2017). The final type, a Gerontology specialist, individuals who also who didn’t specifically major in Gerontology and has a degree in another field. However, these individual’s minored in Gerontology and works in their current career field with a focus or specialization on older adults (All Psychology Careers, 2017).
Additionally, in the Gerontology field there are two main categories Biogerontology, and Social Gerontology. Biogerontology utilizes technology to study and research the causes and effects of ageing biologically (All Psychology Careers, 2017). The focus of Biogerontology analyzes the reasoning behind why humans eventually age to the point of death. While Social Gerontology focus is on society and its relationship with the elderly. Individuals who work in this category assist the older adults in that community get the assistance they need, and educate others in society regarding the elderly organizations, and community service (All Psychology Careers, 2017).
Where might a Gerontologist work, and what might his/her duties include?
Gerontologist are able to work in various roles, but Gerontologist have been found to work or identify with seven specific job roles. These roles include being a Researcher, Advocate, Program planner and Evaluator, Educator/Trainer, Marketer and Program Developer, Direct Service provider, or a Manager/Administrator (All Psychology Careers, 2017). The working environment can vary from nursing homes, to hospitals, private practices, universities, or just about any organization or occupation that works with older adults (Doctorly , 2017). Day to day activities of a Gerontologist or Gerontology work will vary dependent upon the environment and specific occupation. However, the daily duties can vary from providing direct care to the elderly, establishing program plans, teaching at universities, giving speeches, running programs, and more.
What salary might a Gerontologist expect to be paid?
Gerontologist national average salary of jobs was calculated at $191, 000, and salaries posted on job advertising nationwide was calculated at 221% higher than average salaries for multiple job postings nationwide as well (Masters in Psychology Guide, 2017).

Nevertheless, the salary for a Gerontologist is ultimately determined by the amount of education attained, experience, and where that individual works. Those with the most education and experience attained would be the ones making $100,000 plus salary. However, those with entry level Gerontologist jobs and education (bachelor’s degree) salary will more than like start around $50,000 per year (Pay Scale ,

2017).
Nonetheless, with the expected increase in life expectancy, economic challenges, and issues with ageing adults the need for individuals in the Gerontology field is on the rise. Individuals in career fields and professions that specialize in working with the elderly, have a vast educational background, experience, and knowledge are projected to have a significant growth rate according to Labor Statistics of 70% between 2010 and 2020 (University of Southern California , 2017). It is also predicted that Baby Boomers are expected to live well into the 2050’s surpassing the life expectancy of their ancestors (Inner Body, 2017). Which is another cause for projected rise for those individuals in the Gerontology field.