Expanded career opportunities in gerontology and geriatrics are forecast in many disciplines and professions. This diversity exists, in part, because older persons are very different from each other in many ways. As we age, our experiences, needs, resources, and abilities vary according to such factors as gender, race, ethnicity, and economic status. For example, many older persons are very healthy and active. Persons working with these older people might be providing educational opportunities, recreation and leisure programs, and volunteer activities.
Some older persons are frail and less active.
Jobs which relate to these more vulnerable elders might be in long-term care or other health care settings or in certain agencies that deliver services to older persons. The relative newness of the field means that there are opportunities for innovative ideas and new programs and products. Many people have started their own businesses, such as coordinating home health care or consulting with businesses and corporations about how to develop services or design products that would attract older consumers. The varied needs of older persons lead to exciting opportunities for working side by side with professionals from other disciplines. As a service provider, you may be coordinating information from housing agencies, lawyers, transportation providers, nurses, and family counselors.