Gerontological Specialist

Gerontological specialists are professionals who specialize in working with older adults.

What is a typical day as an Gerontologist? 

– Develop programs for older adults that support their health or learning.

– Plan activities for adults in settings like retirement communities and adult daycare centers.

– Do needs assessments to learn how communities can better support aging adults.

– Advise employers on how to support aging adults in the workforce.

– Advise older adults and their families on matters related to employment, finances and housing.

– Provide direct care in hospitals, nursing homes and other settings.

What else might they be expected to do? 

– Advocate for older adults’ needs to lawmakers.

– Teach classes at colleges and universities.

– Research issues relevant to aging adults.

– Write and publish articles in professional journals.

What type of training is needed for this career path? 

– Gerontological specialists come from various professional backgrounds. These include nursing, social work, and wellness/recreation.

– Most gerontological specialists have a post-secondary qualification (Diploma in Nursing/Counseling Psychology, Occupational Therapy/Nutrition or Degree in Sociology/Psychology) coupled with a specialist qualification in gerontology e.g.  Diploma in Gerontology, Geriatric Care Management Course

What kind of personality is needed to excel in this career path? 

-Empathy: Understanding and compassion for older patients.

– Patience: Ability to handle the complexities of aging-related health issues.

– Analytical Thinking: Critical assessment of symptoms and test results.

– Communication Skills: Effectively interacting with patients and their families. 

What kind of interests do people in this career path have? 

– Preference for working with people, helping others, and being involved in activities that promote social interaction and well-being. (Helping)

– Interest in collecting, analyzing and interpreting data and correlate findings with other research in the same and related fields (Thinking)

– For those who aspire to run a Geriatric facility, an interest in leadership, organization, and decision-making (Persuading).

Holland Codes: Helping (H), Thinking (T).  (Optional Persuading (E))

Are there any innate skills or aptitudes required? 

– Enjoy working with older adults.

– Listening and communication skills

– Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills

– The ability to integrate and apply knowledge from various disciplines into an understanding of aging and older adults

– The ability to work in team environments that often include volunteers

What challenges can I expect to face if I pursue this career path? 

– Resource Limitations: Limited access to specialized equipment and facilities in some regions.

– Workforce Shortage: Few trained specialists leading to high demand.

– Emotional Demands: Managing the emotional aspects of aging and end-of-life care. 

What are the job prospects for this path in Kenya and Africa? What about International prospects for a Kenyan citizen? 

– Kenya & Africa: Growing need for specialists due to an aging population, reduced family support  and limited number of aged care specialist.   

– International: Opportunities available in Geriatric Nursing due to high aging population in developed countries. Job role may qualify for visa sponsorship with the right certifications/licensing and experience.   

What should I focus on if I choose to pursue this career? 

– Volunteer as Aged Care Homes to ascertain your passion for the role. 

– Pursue relevant training e.g. Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Psychology

– If interested in working with the local community, learn a local dialect.

Which other careers or job roles can I progress to? 

– Clinical researcher in aging populations

– Palliative care Nurse

– Geriatric psychiatry

– Policy advisor in public health departments or ministries