Why Choose to Minor in Aging Studies?

Students of gerontology study the process of aging, including physiological changes, social roles, normative expectations, attitudes and beliefs, stereotypes, policy, health and economic issues, which define the aging experience. No matter what your major and career goals are, you will likely work for and interact with older adults. Having a minor in aging can certainly enhance your studies and make you more marketable.

The U.S. population is aging. Today, there are more than 46 million older adults age 65 and older living in the U.S.; by 2050, that number is expected to grow to almost 90 million. (Rural Health Information HubOpens in new window . 2019.)

 

TOPICS COVERED

  • How  diet and exercise can slow the aging process
  • How to prevent cognitive decline and increase brain stimulation
  • How older adults can effectively plan for retirement
  • How technology can alleviate the physical limitations of aging
  • How the brain's structure changes as we age
  • How medications can help with age-related issues such as chronic pain
  • How the increasing older adult population impacts the economy
  • Preventing financial fraud and physical/emotional abuse
  • Understanding multicultural, gender, and LGBTQ issues in aging
  • How homes can be modified to allow older adults to continue living in place

 

Marketing majors will have increased opportunities for successful careers if they can use their business skills and strategies to market to older adults and the rising “silver industries.”

Those majoring in Child and Adolescent Studies will interact with older adults given that more and more children are being reared by their grandparents; developing programs for these families will be key. 

If you major in Kinesiology you can expand your future clientele by learning about physical issues unique to the older adult population.

If you are a Psychology major, you can cater your expertise to psychological issues facing a world population that is getting increasingly older.

Those pursuing degrees in Finance, Business, or Accounting can help older adults plan for retirement, prevent financial abuse and scams, and continue to invest in their future.

 

Other Majors that benefit from aging-related coursework

Biology
Sociology
Health Science
Economics
Nursing
Anthropology