Gerontology

Summary

The certificate of Achievement in Gerontology is designed to introduce students to the field of social gerontology. The program provides information on psychological, sociological, and biological aspects of aging and offers students insights into their own aging process as well as that of the growing population of older adults. By the middle of the 21st century, 1 in 5 Americans will be over 65, and there will be 15 to 18 million persons over the age of 85. These forecasts are expected to result in demand for career opportunities in gerontology across many disciplines and professions. This program is both vocational and academic, offering courses in theoretical and practical topics related to human aging.

Learning Outcome(s): Students who complete the Gerontology Program will be able to:

1. Recognize, identify, assess, and address key concepts in aging(e.g., physical and mental health, exercise, nutrition, the normal aging process, etc.) affecting optimal aging and older adulthood functioning.
2. Identify and compare the various public benefits available through local, state, federal, public assistance programs.
3. Identify and make referral to appropriate services.
4. Recognize and identify risk of caregiver stress, particularly in caring for individuals suffering from Alzheimer's and other dementia.
5. Make a report of an incident or suspected incident of an abuse/ neglect of dependent adults and elders.

Requirements