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Brigham Young University
Gerontology is the study of aging. It is multidisciplinary and includes biological, social, family, and psychological processes, as well as the provision of services to older people.
The Census Bureau projects that by 2050, one in three Americans will be 55 years or older and one in five will be 65 or over. This demographic shift is having a major impact on American society calling for increased understanding of this aging population. The aging population has sparked an interest in providing services, programs, leisure activity, and products in the aging field. It is expected that the need for persons in the existing jobs in gerontology will continue and that new kinds of job opportunities will emerge as the population continues to get older.
Our Gerontology Program provides students with many interactive opportunities with older populations. Every March, we hold the Annual Russell B. Clark Gerontology Health Conference where speakers come from around the state and country to talk about popular aging issues. Attendants of all ages learn about these issues and were entertained at the same time!
Every October, Gerontology and other health students travel to St. George, Utah to participate in health screenings for the Huntsman World Senior Games. The health screenings include checking blood pressure, heart rate, blood sugar levels, cholesterol, bone density, glaucoma, balance, and body composition.
