Gerontology Course: Gerontology is the study of ageing and older adults; every person goes through the processes of life and death and these comprise all the phases of life from infancy to later old age.
It is already known that in phases of infancy and old age the person needs the utmost attention and assistance of others to perform their daily activities. However, people sometimes in old age require special medical attention too and even a small mistake might lead to fatal consequences.
Gerontology is the science that deals with the study of problems encountered by the people while ageing or in their later old age. It is a vast field that deals with the study of biological, social, mental, and physical changes in older people and the application of this knowledge to frame policies and programs to assist the elderly.
This course has gained a lot of popularity in the past few years and offers various specializations. It has become a well-paying field for practitioners across the globe. This course offers good monetary fortunes as well as respect in society.
SKILLS REQUIRED
- Hardworking
- Dedication
- Discipline
- Patience and compassion
- Commitment
- Communication skills
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Gerontology Course: Eligibility
Gerontology, eligibility in India depends on various institutes offering Gerontology course. Therefore, we have listed a few points in the same regard:-
- 10+2 passed or equivalent examination.
- Candidate must be a graduate in any relevant subject from a recognized institute with a minimum of 55% of aggregate marks.
- Preference is generally given to those who are working in NGOs/social work organisations and have 2 years of work experience.
Gerontology Course Syllabus
| The multidisciplinary perspective of Gerontology | Policies, Programmes, and Management of services for older adults |
| Health and Wellbeing | Collective Action, Advocacy, and Networking |
| Developmental and Therapeutic Interventions with older adults and families | Older adults with Special Needs |
| Aging and Media | Personal and Interpersonal Development of the Practitioner |
Best Gerontology Colleges in India
- Institute of Home Economics, Delhi University
- Tata Institutes of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai
- National Institute of Social Defence (NISD), New Delhi
- Ramnarain Ruia College, Mumbai
- National Institute of Social Defence, Delhi
- Indian Institute of Counseling, New Delhi
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Foreign universities offering Gerontology course:
- John Hopkins University, Maryland
- University of Massachusetts, Boston
- University of Southern California
- University of Regina, Canada
Gerontology Job Prospects
- Medical and Surgical Hospitals: Gerontology graduates can work as physicians, nurses, and health service managers at hospitals that provide healthcare to old people.
- Shelter houses or other Relief Services: Graduates can also work as social workers and community service providers
- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
- Local, State or Government Agencies
- Nursing care Facilities: Work as a nurse in-home health care, adult day care, retirement homes, nursing homes, etc.
- Consultants in Health care Facilities or private companies
- Work as counsellors to older adults
- Teach at universities or colleges
- Work with other professionals such as lawyers, dieticians, therapists, or counsellors.
- Researchers: Can work directly with elderly patients and perform further research in the field of gerontology.
Gerontology Course: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the expected salary of a Gerontologist?
The package offered to a gerontologist depends upon the experience and the skills acquired. However, one can expect an average starting salary of Rs.2 lacs to Rs.3 lacs per annum.
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- Does Gerontology course allow us to get cross-field job opportunities?
Because it is not a generic degree, so one cannot get any cross-field job opportunities. You can find jobs in the field of gerontology. However, it still has a pool of jobs to choose from.
- Is a gerontologist a medical doctor?
No, gerontologists aren’t medical doctors. They are professionals who specialize in issues of ageing ranging and provide their services and care to old people.
- What is the difference between Gerontology and Geriatrics?
Gerontology is multidisciplinary and is concerned with physical, mental, and social aspects and implications of ageing. Geriatrics is a medical speciality focused on the care and treatment of older persons.