Gerontological Counselor
Learn about the Gerontological Counselor career
Death or disability in the later years of life is far more under our own control than previously thought. Positive mental health and feeling optimistic about aging might be the key to a better quality of life. In this regard, gerontological counselors are helping the elderly population enjoy an exciting and constructive way of life.
Gerontology Resource Links
The field of gerontological counseling will soon have the responsibility of 40% of our population, the Baby Boomers (Morgan, D. (1998) Generations). The sheer amount of Boomers present a new challenge that generations before us have never seen. Due to our wayward economy, Social Security benefits will not be distributed until individuals are in their late 60’s. People will be forced to continue working much longer than expected. Not only is this a source of stress but also creates new hurdles to overcome.
Age discrimination in the workplace is quickly growing. In only 3 years the number of age-biased complaints in the workplace has increased by 41%. Also some companies are forcing retirement or resignation in order to allow younger and lower paid employees to takeover and lower operational costs. Compiling stressors are encouraging the aging populations to turn to gerontological counselors for guidance and support.
Humans have a strong connection between mind and body and positive attitudes have long been credited to physical health. A career in gerontological counseling allows you to teach aging adults how to increase their quality of life using techniques such as group therapy and re-motivation therapy. The combined efforts of the older adults and counselors are changing the attitudes of other people and proving that getting older does not mean the end, but rather a new healthy chapter full of innovation and learning.
Aging adults have always required specialized care. Currently, the rapidly
growing amounts of people with similar needs is creating an unprecedented demand for gerontology counselors. With pressing need, gerontoligical counseling professionals are experiencing more opportunity and greater career perks while also enjoying the rewards of providing newly found purpose and happiness to the elderly. Contact schools to learn more about how to breath new life into aging.
Request information from schools offering Counseling degree programs. Also, learn more about the counseling licensing process and what the requirements for licensure are: Counseling Licensure.