McDaniel College 

The Study of Gerontology

What Is Gerontology?
Gerontology is the scientific examination of aging from a bio-psycho-social perspective. It is designed to be an interdisciplinary field of study concerned with the physical, mental, social, and spiritual aspects of life and aging. It is an important area of study, since meeting the needs/wants of older persons will be a major, if not predominant emphasis in our country for the next several decades.

Careers in Gerontology
A recent US News and World report article cited two gerontological professions (geriatric social work and geriatric nutritional counseling) as two of 21 hot track careers for the 21st century. Studying gerontology also benefits workers and personnel in the senior service sector, retail sales, vacation, dining, recreation, and entertainment venues, banks, industry, and health clubs.

Specific careers options in Aging include working in Aging Services, such as Long-term Care and Assisted Living Facilities, Senior Centers, and Adult Day Care Centers. Another option is to apply the study of Aging to a specific profession, such as counselors who wish to work with elders and their families or travel agents who wish to package trips and tours for senior adults. More information on careers in Aging is available by visiting the websites for the following organizations:

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