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11.1: Gerontology

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    Gerontology

    One of the fastest-growing populations in the United States is older adults aged 65 and up. By 2034, it is predicted that older adults will outnumber people under the age of 18 for the first time in the United States. By 2060, it is projected there will be 95 million older persons. Human Service workers have long been involved with helping the older adult population and as time goes on the need for workers dedicated to the aging population is essential. Gerontology is the study of the human aging process and older adults. A central point of Gerontology is the premise that older adults are a special population. Our needs change and evolve as we grow older and human services can help support older adults in those later years. When working with older adults human service workers should uphold and advocate for clients' right to self-determination, and assist in addressing any emotional, physical, or cognitive needs that maintain a person's overall well-being.

    chart showing aging population growth

    Issues that human service workers may address with older adults:

    • Poverty/homelessness
    • End of Life
    • Home management and safety
    • Insurance navigation; Medicare, Medicaid
    • Social Support
    • Addiction and Mental Health
    • Involvement in the criminal justice system
    • Disability

    Attribution: United States Census Bureau


    11.1: Gerontology is shared under a not declared license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by LibreTexts.

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