By: Izzy Josheff

 A gerontologist is a medical professional who studies and treats conditions related to the aging process.  Some professionals conduct detailed laboratory research on diseases and aging in general  others work in hospitals and nursing homes to provide direct care for patients.  May teach gerontology or social classes.

 A typical day for a gerontologist may consist of counseling sessions or talking to different clients of different age groups.  Teaching gerontology classes.  Attending departmental meetings.  Working in the lab developing new ways to treat or cure sickness.

 Aspiring gerontologists often have to study a wide range of subjects including nursing, psychology, sociology and medicine to name a few.  Those who are interested in the field should take courses in sociology, biology, chemistry, and psychology.  To be considered a qualified gerontologist one must obtain either a bachelor of medicine or a bachelor of surgery.

 Gerontology is a growing profession, and is expected to increase drastically in the near future.  Everybody gets old, its just a fact of life, but with the worlds population steadily increasing the demand for health professionals is obviously going to increase.

 The annual salary for gerontologists is $41,800 a year.  Salary range can be anywhere between $28,500 and $55,300 dollars a year  Income varies greatly depending on education and experience.

 To be a successful gerontologist you should be able to listen to and understand information.  You should be able to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.  You should be able to see details at close range.  You should be able to speak and write clearly so others will be able to understand you.

 Obtaining information  Processing information  Making decisions and solving problems  Updating and using relevant knowledge  Interacting with computers  Analyzing data or information  Documenting/recording information  Identifying objects, actions, and events  Evaluating information to determine compliance with standards  And interpreting the meaning of information for others.