What is a Gerontologist?
A gerontologist is a professional that specializes in the special needs and issues that relate to older adults and to aging populations in general. Some gerontologists work in coordinating health and/or social services, while others work at maintaining older adults active and healthy in the community. A number of gerontologists work in research, yet others are to be found in the policy arena trying to change laws and regulations that affect older adults. The distinguishing feature of gerontologists is not what they do but that they are all working to improve the lives of older adults in some capacity or another. It is easier to define a gerontologist by his or her actions!
Gerontologists' Roles:
Direct Service:
Access client needs
Provide services directly to the older client and family
Coordinate services with other agencies and institutions
Work to assure for older clients and their families that the services are appropriate and of high quality
Evaluate and modify the services needed
Conduct outreach to expand and enhance client base
Carry out advocacy on behalf of older person
Education and Training:
Plan and conduct educational programs for older persons, their caregivers, and families
Plan and conduct continuing education programs for paraprofessionals and professionals interested in serving the elderly
Instruct preprofessionals
Coordinate intergenerational programs
Program Planning and Evaluation:
Identify the needs of the community
Plan the programs and facilities
Determine the level and timing of funds required
Develop the staffing and management plans
Determine with the evaluation plan for the program
Consult with other agencies and programs
Coordinate with other programs
Administration and Policy:
Design the structure, motivate and supervise the activities of staff members
Determine common monitors and modify organizational expenditures
Coordinate activities within the organization and with other organizations
Conduct analyses of current and proposed programs
Increase public awareness of needs and services
Gerontologists' Places of Employment:
Health Facilities:
Hospitals
Diagnostic and Assessment Centers
Community Clinics
Hospices
HMO's
Mental Health Facilities
VA and State Hospitals
Homebound Programs
Day Treatment Programs
Community Health Centers
Rehabilitation and Job Placement:
State Rehabiliation Agencies
Job Retraining and Placement Agencies
Social Services:
Family Service Agencies
Departments of Social Service
Senior Centers
Church Related Agencies
Corporations:
New Service or Product Development
Private Consultation
Marketing of Products
Living Arrangements:
Retirement Communities
Congregate Homes
Research:
Universities and Colleges
Government Agencies
Corporations
Community Agencies
Senior Centers
Retirement Communities
Adult Day Care
Government Agencies
Federal and State Legislative Bodies
Planning or Transportation Agencies
Area Agencies on Aging
Advocacy Organizations
Membership Organizations
Research Organizations
