A rapidly aging population is a worldwide issue that has been ignored for too long. With many graduates facing a challenging job market, it only makes sense to choose a degree in a field that is expanding.

The facts

According to the Population Reference Bureau there are 76.4 million Baby Boomers in America, people born during the demographic Post–World War II baby boom between the years 1946 and 1964. The first Baby Boomer turned 65 in 2011. By 2029, all Boomers will be at least 65 years old. According to Eurostat, “over the next 50 years, population ageing is likely to attain unprecedented levels in 31 European countries.” The size of the group, combined with an increase in life expectancy, means the demand for elder care workers is rapidly growing.

Fastest growing employment sector within the health care industry

According to studies, current healthcare systems worldwide lack the capacity of caring for a large population of elderly patients, especially those with one or more chronic conditions. Because of this, elder care is predicted to be the fastest growing employment sector within the health care industry. This scenario offers a great opportunity in job choices for younger people with a degree in gerontology, as any business providing products for older adults, or created to serve or support an elder or caregiver, will benefit from the knowledge and expertise offered by gerontologists.

Gerontology - a diverse field with career opportunities

Gerontology is the physical, mental, and sociological study of aging. It includes the study of changes in adults as they age, the ways that society changes with an aging population, and the ways we apply this information to programs and policies for older adults. Social Gerontology is concerned with more social aspects of how aging affects populations. It is a diverse field with career opportunities in human services, government agencies, retirement communities, nursing homes, health care, and long-term institutional care. Careers for gerontologists are numerous because they include almost any profession in which an older person is cared for and assisted.

Study Social Geronotology at Alma Mater Europaea

Alma Mater Europaea offers innovative bachelor, master's and Ph.D. Social Gerontology study programs. Alma Mater Europaea is committed to providing students with a broad theoretical understanding of lifespan development complemented by practical experience. Students will gain a better understanding of the roles of older adults and their contributions to society and become experts in the field of gerontology with vast employment opportunities.