Have you ever thought about becoming an administrative gerontologist. Did you know that according to a recent survey, assisted living administrators counted their jobs as one of most meaningful jobs? In fact, the survey ranked individuals with this type of job as number four in overall job satisfaction, according to MSN Money. An assisted living administrator is also known as an administrative gerontologist.
The word "gerontology" comes from a combination of the Greek word "geron," meaning "old man" and the word "logia" which means "study of." A gerontologist specializes in the study of aging. They examine how the aging process affects individuals over a lifetime. Principally, gerontologists want to help the elderly age happily and successfully.
What Do Gerontologists Do?
There are three types of gerontologists: research gerontologists, applied gerontologists and administrative gerontologists. Research gerontologists study the aging process. Applied gerontologists attempt to educate the public about the elderly. In contrast, the administrative gerontologist works with the elder social communities. An administrative gerontologist develops programs and coordinates services both to care for and to enrich the lives of the elderly.
What Does an Administrative Gerontologist Do?
Administrative gerontologists have a high degree of job satisfaction, because they actually interact with the elderly. Most administrative gerontologists are health service managers in some capacity. Many become the administrators of nursing homes, assisted living facilities or adult day-care centers. Their job duties may include overseeing the personnel of the facility as well as creating and coordinating policies and procedures for the facility. Through the programs and services they provide, they are at the forefront of helping individuals "successfully age."
What Kind of Education Would You Need To Become an Administrative Gerontologist?
While there is no specific educational requirement for an individual to become a gerontologist, most individuals have a background in health or social services. They may have degrees in many different fields, including sociology, psychology, pharmacy, nutrition, nursing or gerontology. Other gerontologists combine degrees from different fields. There are even some individuals who come to the field with an MBA. Whatever degree you have, above all, you must enjoy working with the elderly.
Will There Be Future Jobs For Gerontologists?
Gerontologists have occupied an important role in our society . The growing aging population guarantees that nursing homes, assisted living facilities, adult day care centers and even neighborhood recreational centers are going to need individuals skilled and comfortable in working with the elderly. This job will grow at a rate higher than the average rate for other careers.
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Is Being an Administrative Gerontologist the Right Job For You?
Before you decide that you want to be an administrative gerontologist, ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you enjoy working with the elderly?
- Do you like helping people live a more fulfilling life?
- Are you interested in the day-to-day operations of facilities that care for the elderly?
- Would you like one of the most fulfilling jobs today?
If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then an administrative gerontologist may be the career path for you.