Gerontology is a growing field. What does it take to succeed? Here are a few things to consider if you're interested in helping the growing population of aging adults.

1. Looking into Gerontology as a Profession
What is Gerontology?
Gerontology has become a very popular field of
study in recent years. Gerontology is commonly
defined as the scientific study of old age, the
process of aging, and the particular problems that
face the elderly.
With a large number of American citizens
beginning to enter their later years, this study
has become very important and there has been
a large demand for gerontologists in the U.S. If
you are interested in gerontology, it is important
that you learn all that you can about the field.
Learning as much as you can about the field before you make your
final decision is a great way to ensure that you are setting yourself up for a
successful career. First and foremost, it is important to understand that gerontology is a
multidisciplinary field.
Fields of Study
There are many different fields of study
that are integrated into gerontology. Not
only do gerontologists need to
understand the biological and
psychological aspects of aging but they
will also need to understand the
sociological aspects of aging.
Gerontologists are trained to
understand the public and economic
policies that will affect those that are
aging. Often times you will find
gerontologists that have chosen to
specialize in one aspect of the field.
In general there are three different areas that gerontologists are
trained in as they are going to school. First, they study the physical, mental
and social changes that occur as people begin to age.
Second, they study the changes in society resulting from an aging population. Finally, they also
understand how these areas affect policies and programs that are instituted for those that are
aging.

2. Some people confuse gerontology and geriatrics, or they assume that these two fields are
synonymous. Geriatrics is the study of health and disease that affect those that are older and the
comprehensive health of those that are aging and the well-being of their caregiver.
Choosing Gerontology as a Career
If you find gerontology to be an
intriguing field of study, it may be a
great field to go into. As a large
population of U.S. citizens age, it is
important that our society is equipped
with professionals who understand
their specific needs.
While you are studying
gerontology, it is important that
you do what you can to gain
professional experience.
Volunteering at a local hospital,
care facility or even a nursing
home can be a great way to get
experience that will be beneficial to your
career in the future.
While you are looking for volunteer opportunities you may want to start by
talking with your teachers. Your teachers may know people within their network that can
provide you the opportunity to work in your chosen field.
You may also want to look for a formal internship. An internship may be able to give you a
better idea of what your life will be like on a day to day basis if you decide to pursue work as a
gerontologist.
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