Eldercare

Major: Eldercare (Gerontology and Aging Services)

Overview: This major focuses on the physical, emotional, and social needs of older adults, combining healthcare, psychology, and social services. Students develop skills in care planning, geriatric assessment, and interdisciplinary teamwork, preparing for careers in elderly care facilities, home healthcare, NGOs, and government programs.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Understand aging processes, common health conditions (e.g., dementia, mobility issues), and psychosocial needs.
• Develop skills in care planning, geriatric assessment, and teamwork.
• Learn best practices in elderly nutrition, rehabilitation, and palliative care.
• Explore policy and ethics in eldercare, including regulations and standards.
• Gain hands-on experience with assistive technologies and home modifications for aging-in-place.

Core Courses:

1. Introduction to Gerontology

   • Demographics of aging and cultural attitudes toward elderly care.

2. Geriatric Health and Wellness

   • Age-related diseases and prevention strategies.

3. Psychosocial Aspects of Aging

   • Mental health, loneliness, and family dynamics in elderly populations.

4. Eldercare Services and Policies

   • Laws and organizations supporting the elderly.

5. Assistive Technologies for Aging

   • Solutions for household adaptations and mobility aids.

6. Palliative and End-of-Life Care

   • Ethical and cultural considerations in end-of-life care.

7. Internship/Practicum

   • Hands-on experience in nursing homes, hospitals, or home care agencies.

8. Capstone Project

   • Design a care plan or community program for elderly populations.

Assessment Methods:

• Case studies of elderly care facilities.
• Care plans for hypothetical or real clients.
• Fieldwork reports from internships.
• Policy analyses of eldercare regulations.
• Capstone projects (e.g., proposing a community program for elderly).

Recommended Resources:

• "Aging and Care" by gerontology experts.
• Reports on aging populations from statistical institutes.
• Organizations focused on elderly support and training.

Prerequisites:

• Basic knowledge of biology, psychology, or healthcare.
• Compassion and interest in working with elderly populations.

Duration:

• 2 years (associate degree) or 4 years (bachelor’s degree).
• Certifications: Geriatric Care Manager (GCM) or similar credentials.

Career Paths:

1. Direct Care Roles:

   • Geriatric nurse, home health aide, or caregiver.

2. Administrative Roles:

   • Manager at nursing homes or elderly care facilities.

3. NGOs and Advocacy:

   • Work with organizations supporting elderly populations.

4. Entrepreneurship:

   • Start a home care agency or elderly-friendly service.

5. Policy and Research:

   • Roles in government agencies or academic research on aging.

Why This Major?

• High Demand: Aging populations worldwide require skilled caregivers.
• Cultural Relevance: Family-centered care models align with many cultural values.
• Government Support: Many countries have initiatives to improve elderly care services.