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UNIT 3
The Gerontology Worker
What is Gerontology?
Physical changes Mental changes Social changes
Changes in society resulting from more elderly people
Who is a Gerontologist?
Phys. Therapists, Doctors, Nurses
Mental Psychiatrist, Psychologist
Social Worker, Community Service
What is Geriatrics?
Geriatrics is: A study focusing on the changes
the study of health and disease in later life
Direct Contact Indirect Contact
Develop Programs for elderly people to participate in
Provide physical care
Provide counseling sessions
Advising older clients on life affairs
Conducting research Planning and administering
community services Teaching courses on aging to
high school and college students
Advocating for older persons to legislative bodies
Designing products to meet the needs of this population
Advising businesses and laborers on needs of older workers/consumers
What Jobs and Careers are Available?
Career Examples: Geriatrics (Physical changes)
Primary Care Physician Family doctor
Registered Nurse (RN) Evaluates patient’s needs, coordinates help
Provides for the needs the RN decided upon
Heart doctor
Neurologist Brain doctor
Physical Therapist Exercises to improve movement
Career Examples: Geriatrics (Physical changes)
Foot/Ankle Doctor
Audiologist Ear Doctor
Dietician Plans diet to fit the needs of each patient based on
conditionsPharmacist
Makes (compounds) medicine
Teeth/Mouth Doctor
Career Examples: Mental changes
Psychologist “Therapist” that will listen and give advice
“Therapist” that can prescribe anti-depressant and
anti-anxiety medication
Organizes activities that help elders use time wisely EX: How to pay bills on a fixed income
Speech Therapist Re-teaches speech to those who have had stroke,
heart attack, etc.
Career Examples: Social changes
Looks for signs of Elder Abuse, provide structure for
social changesRecreational Therapist
Leads recreational activities EX: “Hawaiian Night”
Takes care of duties at home while patient is at an
extended stay (hospital or nursing home)
How do I Become a Professional in Aging?
Some students choose Gerontology as a SPECIALTY within: anthropology, architecture, biology, political science, psychology, sociology, medicine, nursing, social work, health-related professions
Some MAJOR in Gerontology Associate’s Bachelor’s Master’s Doctoral Postdoctoral
Continuing Education