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In the end, physical or mental age-related illnesses and ailments affect everybody to varying degrees. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2050, more than 23 per cent of Americans will be over the age of 65, so it’s no surprise the need for healthcare professionals with specialised skills and qualifications in elder care is growing, particularly in the field of gerontology and geriatrics. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they’re distinctly different fields with distinctly different career options and pathways.
Geriatrics: Treatment & Care For the Elderly
As we age, our cells, tissues and organs change, which puts us at risk for chronic illnesses like cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritics and Parkinsons disease. Geriatrics is the branch of medicine that addresses these kinds of age-related chronic diseases, including the well-being of older adults with the goal of promoting longevity and, ultimately, quality of life.
Unlike general medicine, geriatrics takes a holistic approach to aging. It acknowledges that seniors often have multiple health concerns at the same time and that standard treatments may need to be adjusted for older patients. Medication management, fall prevention, cognitive decline, and overall mobility are just some of the key areas that geriatrics addresses.
Career Pathways:
If you’re interested in the field of geriatrics, there are a number of career options available. Here are just a few:
Geriatrician
A Geriatrician is a doctor who specializes in caring for older adults. They diagnose and treat age-related health issues, manage chronic conditions, and help patients maintain their quality of life. They also work closely with families and other healthcare professionals to create personalized care plans that support overall wellbeing.
Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
A Geriatric Nurse Practitioner (GNP) is an advanced practice nurse who specializes in caring for older adults. They diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and create treatment plans to help seniors stay as healthy and independent as possible. GNPs typically work in hospitals, nursing homes, or private practice clinics.
Geriatric Social Worker
A Geriatric Social Worker helps older adults and their families navigate the challenges of aging such as social isolation, maintaining independence and healthcare support. They provide emotional support, connect people with resources like home care or financial aid, and advocate for seniors’ wellbeing. They often work in hospitals, nursing homes, and community centers.
Gerontology: The Scientific Study of Aging
While geriatrics focuses on the medical care of the elderly, gerontology examines the biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging to improve the quality of life for older adults. This field is multidisciplinary because studying how and why different populations change as they age requires skills and insights from areas like psychology, sociology, anthropology, biology, and medicine. This diverse field also other a diverse range of career pathways, including:
Career Pathways:
While geriatrics and gerontology are different, the career opportunities in this field are similar. People who study a gerontology nurse practitioner program online, Bachelor in Gerontology, Masters of Science in Gerontology and other related qualifications, could pursue a career as a:
Social Worker
Aging populations require more social support services. Gerontological social workers help seniors find resources, access healthcare, and navigate financial aid. They may work in hospitals, senior centers, or government agencies.
Aging Policy Advocate
A Policy Advocate works on laws and policies related to elder care, ensuring that governments create effective programs for senior citizens, such as affordable housing and healthcare.
Researcher
As a researcher in the field of gerontology, you will study the aging process and develop new treatments or interventions. They may work in universities, government agencies, or research institutions to help society better understand longevity and aging.
Senior Living Administrator
A Senior Living Administrator manages assisted living or retirement communities, ensuring that older adults receive proper care, nutrition, and recreational activities. They oversee staff, budgets, and facility operations.
The future is aging, and the field of gerontology and geriatrics can help us prepare for what’s ahead. That means we need more professionals in both gerontology and geriatrics to help society adapt. Would you rather study the effects of aging on society or work directly with elderly patients? Either way, there’s never been a better time to explore a career in this growing field.
