The Gerontology Worker UNIT 3 What is Gerontology

The Gerontology Worker UNIT 3

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 � the study of health and disease in later life changes

What Jobs and Careers are Available? Direct Contact �Develop Programs for elderly people to participate in �Provide physical care �Provide counseling sessions �Advising older clients on life affairs Indirect Contact � 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

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 conditions �Pharmacist 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 changes �Recreational 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