Welcome to the

GERO Institute at ULM

The Gerontology Education, Research, and Outreach Institute

WHAT IS GERONTOLOGY?

Gerontology is the study of the biological, psychological, cognitive, and social aspects of aging.  It is a multidisciplinary study of the aging process. “Gerontologists include researchers and practitioners in such diverse fields as biology, medicine, nursing, dentistry, social work, physical and occupational therapy, psychology, psychiatry, sociology, economics, political science, leisure studies, architecture, pharmacy, and anthropology” (Hooyman and Kiyak, 2018).

CURRENT NEED FOR WORKFORCE IN GERONTOLOGY

There is an urgent need for well-trained professionals in the field of Gerontology and, consequently, the projected growth rate of jobs in Gerontology is quite high. The U.S. Census Bureau projects that by 2020, the life expectancy will grow to 77.1 years for men and 81.9 years for women. According to the US Census Bureau, the total US population, between 2000 and 2010, increased by 9.7% (going from 281.4 million to 308.7 million).  However, the population aged 65 years and older increased by 15.1% during the same period. The estimated growth of the elderly population in the U.S. over the next 50 years will have an unprecedented impact on the services available to the elderly.  An increase in the number of older adults with longer life expectancies will seriously affect elder care services such as, long-term care, community-based care, health care, and other supportive services. The current gerontological workforce is not adequate to meet the unique demands of an aging society.  Moreover, the current workforce will retire (or reduce their work hours) within the next 10 to 15 years creating more gaps in service-delivery for the elderly recipients of services.  Consequently, there is an acute need for more well qualified professionals in the field of Gerontology.

WHAT DOES THE GERO INSTITUTE AT ULM OFFER?

The GERO Institute at ULM is one of a kind institute that focuses on Gerontology research, professional education and community outreach programs.  The Institute addresses the contemporary needs of the older population as well as the Gerontology Industry