Gerontology is the study of aging in humans and includes the study of the physical, mental, and social changes as people age. This field of study is important because the older adult population is increasing and will continue to do so over the next 40 years. In 2008, there were 38.9 million older adults 65+. Of this group, 22.4 million were women and 16.5 million were men. The older adult segment consisted of 12.8% of the total U.S. population. This segment is expected to increase to 71.2 million older adults by 2030 or 19.3% of the total population (AOA, 2010).
In addition, the National Institute of Aging projects a need of 60,000 to 70,000 geriatric social workers by 2020. Volland (2010) reports an increase in the number of geriatric social workers to 109,000 in 2050 from 36,000 in 2002.
A major concern among professional associations and accrediting boards is to have social workers as well as other professionals educated in the knowledge and skills required to work effectively with older adults.
In response to these trends and concerns, the Mount has a minor and certificate program in gerontology to help prepare students for a variety of career opportunities in both long term care and community based services for older adults. The minor nicely complements one’s major. The certificate may be taken by those who have completed their degrees in any field.
The gerontology minor and certificate provide the resources for students to work with older adults in a number of different environments such as business, government, industry, public and private agencies, health and human services, research and education, and entrepreneurial endeavors. For those not taking a position in the aging network, the gerontology minor and certificate also provide valuable information in working with older family members and relatives.
The department has recently re-structured these programs so that students could take them completely on-line. This change accommodates the needs of many students whose schedules at school and work are complex. See the specifics of each program below.
Adjacent to the College are Mother Margaret Hall and Bayley Place. Mother Margaret Hall is a retirement facility for the Sisters of Charity. Bayley Place, as shown below, is a Continuing Care Retirement Community that offers independent living and assisted living, and health care services for those who have Alzheimer's disease and those who require full nursing care. In addition, Bayley Place provides a wellness center to the residents of the Village of Bayley Place and to people in the surrounding communities. Also, adult day services and respite care are provided as well as a host of other valuable services to older adults.
Many of our students at the College do practicums and field placements as well as co-op and service learning experiences at both Mother Margaret Hall and Bayley Place.