We can’t feel it, but it’s happening all the time. We’re aging. Eventually, we’ll all have to adjust to things like reduced mobility or age-related illness. Older people have specific health, social, and psychological needs. Gerontology focuses on many different facets of aging, including the biological, psychological, and sociological aspects. Gerontologists are professionals who attempt to understand and address the needs of the elderly.
The term ‘gerontologist’ encompasses a wide variety of professionals who work with the elderly. Some gerontologists work with older people through community service programs. Others research physical and psychological aspects of aging. All aim to improve the quality of our lives as we get older.
Gerontology relates to many fields, including biology, psychology, education, environmental studies, ethics, health, human ecology, law, public administration, recreation, and sociology. Gerontologists can be found in all these areas, and the field is still growing.
One of the emerging areas in gerontology is adult day care. Many elderly people, including Alzheimer’s patients and stroke victims, live alone. Although some don’t need round-the-clock supervision, they can still benefit from daily social interaction. In addition, they often find it helpful to receive prepared meals, and assistance with medications. Adult day care centres provide this care and assistance. They usually organize group outings as well.
Some gerontologists enter the profession at the beginning of their professional lives. Others enter the field after working as nurses, social workers, doctors, physiotherapists, or financial planners. For example, people with qualifications in physiotherapy may choose to focus their skills on therapeutic techniques that help relieve muscle, nerve, and joint problems in the elderly.
Similarly, people with qualifications in social work can specialize in helping elderly people. They may visit their clients at home, monitor their health, and make arrangements for special services such as meal delivery.
NOC Code: 4169