How to Become a Gerontologist in Delaware - DE

By RSWiese, allied health world contributing writer
Published: July, 22 2010

Certification in gerontology is not necessary in Delaware because it is a multi-disciplinary field. This means that in many instances, a medical professional will have a career in something other than gerontology in which they are certified. For example, a person may have a nursing degree and additional coursework in geriatrics—or simply practical experience. This person will, of course, need to be certified as a nurse prior to working at a facility that treats older adults. Other careers may not have the same type of requirements. A Delaware resident who wants to work in the field of gerontology should investigate the various types of positions available and the requirements needed to obtain those positions.

The Gerontological Society of America (GSA - www.geron.org) is an interdisciplinary organization that advances the study of aging and provides information to agencies and individuals that work primarily with mature adults.  GSA members can affiliate with different sections of the organization depending on their area of expertise.  Some of these specialized areas include Biological Sciences, Health Sciences, Behavioral and Social Sciences, or Social Research, Policy and Practice.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for geriatric medical specialists will grow at more than an average rate for the next several years. Through campus based and online programs, aspiring gerontologists in Wilmington, Dover and Newark, Delaware may be able to prepare themselves for the possibility of employment in some of the largest hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state including the Christiana Hospital, Nanticoke Memorial Hospital, and Kent General Hospital.