How to Become a Gerontologist in Washington - WA

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

Gerontology certification in Washington is going to depend solely on the field in which the gerontologist wishes to apply his or her skills. For instance, a geriatric physician will need to be licensed as a physician. Administrators will need to hold a master degree in administration with a specialization in gerontology.

The state of Washington is placing a great deal of focus on obesity as an issue for seniors. Though the average life span has lengthened with advances in medicine, the Washington Department of Health is concerned about how obesity may be impacting the quality of life in elderly citizens.

Since obesity is such an important issue and may lead to disabilities in elderly citizens, gerontologists in any field are going to find increasing opportunities for positions in the medical and nutritional field.  According to the United States Census Bureau, over 17% of the population of Washington is over the age of 65. That’s a large portion of the population that may need geriatric services.
Some of the places a gerontologist can expect to be employed in would be in the Washington Department of Health, hospitals, nursing homes, home health care and community programs in Washington.

Some of the personality traits aspiring gerontologists would benefit from include patience, the ability to work well with senior citizens, the ability to convey ideas and concepts to those who may help elderly people, and the ability to empathize, just to name a few. In general, gerontologists should be tolerant of people and their needs. They should be able to perform their tasks in such a manner as to convey a friendly and sympathetic attitude. They may also need to be prepared for dealing with death.