Elderly Care

Major: Elderly Care (Gerontology and Aging Services)

Overview: The Elderly Care major is designed to train professionals in providing comprehensive care for older adults. This program combines healthcare, psychology, and social services to address the physical, emotional, and social needs of the elderly. Students learn about aging processes, geriatric health conditions, and strategies for improving the quality of life for older adults. Graduates are prepared for careers in elderly care facilities, home healthcare, community services, and gerontology research.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Understand the biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging.
• Develop skills in geriatric assessment, care planning, and management of chronic conditions.
• Learn techniques for providing emotional support, promoting independence, and enhancing quality of life.
• Explore principles of geriatric nutrition, mobility, and cognitive health.
• Analyze policies and ethical considerations in elderly care.
• Develop critical thinking, empathy, and communication skills for effective elderly care.

Core Courses:

1. Introduction to Gerontology

   • Overview of the aging process, demographics, and societal impacts of an aging population.

2. Geriatric Health and Chronic Conditions

   • Study of common health issues in the elderly, such as diabetes, arthritis, and dementia.

3. Psychosocial Aspects of Aging

   • Exploration of mental health, social isolation, and family dynamics in elderly populations.

4. Elderly Nutrition and Wellness

   • Principles of nutrition, physical activity, and wellness programs for older adults.

5. Care Planning and Management

   • Techniques for creating individualized care plans and coordinating care services.

6. Palliative and End-of-Life Care

   • Principles of compassionate care for terminally ill elderly and support for their families.

7. Assistive Technologies for the Elderly

   • Overview of technologies and home modifications to support independence and safety.

8. Ethics and Policy in Elderly Care

   • Examination of ethical dilemmas, patient rights, and policies affecting elderly care.

9. Internship/Practicum

   • Hands-on experience in nursing homes, hospitals, or community care settings.

10. Capstone Project in Elderly Care

    • Comprehensive project applying skills in care planning, geriatric assessment, or program development for the elderly.

Assessment Methods:

• Geriatric assessment reports and care plans.
• Case studies on managing chronic conditions and psychosocial issues.
• Projects on elderly nutrition, wellness programs, or assistive technologies.
• Internship evaluations and reflective reports.
• Capstone projects on elderly care programs or policy analyses.

Recommended Resources:

• "Gerontology: Changes, Challenges, and Solutions" by various authors.
• "Elder Care: A Resource for Interprofessional Practice" by Carol A. Miller.
• "The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for People Who Have Alzheimer Disease, Other Dementias, and Memory Loss" by Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabins.
• Guidelines from World Health Organization (WHO) on aging and health.

Prerequisites:

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

Duration:

• Typically 2 years for an associate degree or certification program.
• 4 years for a bachelor’s degree in Gerontology or related fields.

Certifications:

Graduates can pursue certifications such as:

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) with a focus on geriatrics.
• Certified Caregiver for elderly care.
• Certification in Gerontology from recognized institutions.

Career Paths:

1. Geriatric Care Manager:

   • Coordinate and manage care plans for elderly clients.

2. Home Health Aide:

   • Provide in-home care and support for elderly individuals.

3. Elderly Care Facility Administrator:

   • Manage operations in nursing homes or assisted living facilities.

4. Gerontological Social Worker:

   • Provide counseling and support services for elderly individuals and their families.

5. Palliative Care Specialist:

   • Offer compassionate care for terminally ill elderly patients.

6. Elderly Wellness Coordinator:

   • Develop and implement wellness programs for older adults in community centers.

7. Research Assistant in Gerontology:

   • Assist in research projects focused on aging and elderly care.

Why This Major?

• Growing Demand: Aging populations worldwide create a high demand for skilled elderly care professionals.
• Impactful Work: Make a meaningful difference in the lives of elderly individuals and their families.
• Diverse Opportunities: Careers in healthcare, social services, community programs, and research.