Advocates with backgrounds in gerontology and communication know how to engage people of all ages to make impactful change, including policy makers and community members.
Healthcare workers with a gerontology background know how to communicate effectively with older adults, regardless of any physical or cognitive challenges. They understand what it means to interact with and care for people of all ages in a dignified and respectful manner.
Professionals in news and broadcasting are the gatekeepers of what becomes our history — the stories they tell and how they tell them matter. News and broadcasting professionals trained in gerontology will recognize the need to present information in a way that conveys its relevance to viewers of all ages. In addition they can make sure balanced and realistic images of older adults and aging are portrayed.
Marketing professionals who have studied gerontology will understand what products and services older adults may want or need. In understanding the factors that contribute to older adults’ consumption patterns and preferences, marketing professionals will be equipped to design campaigns that more effectively appeal to older people.
The field of scientific research is broad, with practitioners working in many roles from direct bench science or working with human subjects to grant writing. A background in gerontology will help researchers take into consideration aspects of aging as they design and implement their research studies.
Educators who teach pre-K through college and those focused on public education benefit from gerontology training by knowing how to teach ageism-free content, helping students identify and question ageist assumptions, teaching and employing age-friendly communication skills and drawing on the vast social capital represented by older volunteers.
Engage and effectively communicate with older adults, families and the community
Collaborate across disciplines to effectively address the complex needs and desires of older adults
Understand and utilize current and emerging technologies such as information systems and artificial intelligence to ethically enhance service delivery, research and innovation in the field of aging
“ From this program, I’ve learned to become more confident in my abilities and found efficient ways to improve my skills. I can’t wait to put them to use to help others! ”
Develop a strategic understanding of multiple communication methods and build important skills that apply across many career paths.
Find Out More About Comm Studies
Help protect, maintain and promote healthy lifestyles, detect and prevent disease, and deliver health programs in your community.
Develop the skills you need to deliver humanistic health care by focusing on the intersection of the arts and humanities, health, illness, and health care.
Study the biological, psychological and social aspects of aging to work in the public or private sector in a fast-growing field.
Learn More About Applied Gerontology
Build an academic foundation for career pathways that involve working with aging adults.
