For example, if you are interested in helping older adults in need, we will try to place you in a local social service agency. If your interests are more business oriented, we can set up an experience with a local business so you can learn about retirement planning, agency administration, etc. In short, we will do everything we can to give you the necessary tools you need to fulfill your personal educational goals. In addition to the internship, the gerontology program encourages volunteer experiences with older adults in the area. You may want to visit older people in nursing homes, help solicit signatures for later-life political initiatives, deliver meals to seniors who have mobility problems, or just sit down and talk with those who visit many area senior community centers.
Research is important to gerontology.
In comparison to other, more established, disciplines, we know relatively little about the aging process, the social needs of older adults, and the impact senior-specific programing has on the lives of our older citizens. Research can help answer these questions. Students, especially those planning to attend graduate school or those who will work in social service agencies, are encouraged to take advantage of our research opportunities. Additionally, if you have an aging-related research idea you would like to explore, we will do everything we can to help you. If you have any question on how expertise in aging can benefit your specific major, please contact the Gerontology office for an in-depth analysis of how our Minor can help you.