Working with the Elderly
Published July 12th, 2010 in Health Care Career
If you look at any statistics on the current health care career outlook, you’ll find references to the aging Baby Boomer generation (those born between the years of 1946 and 1964). The rationale behind it is sound: we are approaching a time when the many individuals born during these years are in need of advanced medical care.
In fact, over half of all doctor visits made last year were for Baby Boomers in need of age-related tests and medications. And in order to supply this care, there is an increased need for trained health care professionals to do it.
That’s why one of the best moves you can make if you’re considering health care training is to consider careers that specialize in working with older populations. There are many different types of health care jobs available within this demographic, especially if you have the education to back up your drive.
If you’re interested in learning more about health care careers that require a Bachelor’s Degree or less, these ones are especially suited for working with the elderly:
Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians: Heart disease is especially prevalent among aging populations, and cardiovascular technologists assist physicians in diagnosing and treating ailments related to the heart.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers: These professionals must be trained to use high-tech equipment (like x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, sonography, and ultrasonography) to help diagnose ailments.
Home Health Aides: More and more elderly individuals are opting for in-home long-term and hospice care. These “nursing assistant” positions are one of the most widely available throughout the country.
Licensed Practical Nurses/Registered Nurses: Nursing is one of the strongest fields for starting a health care career. You can specialize in geriatrics, cardiology, or orthopedics to get a greater stronghold for serving the aging population.
Laboratory Technicians and Phlebotomists: Drawing blood and preparing samples for diagnostic tests are part of treating patients of all ages, and training tends to be very fast for those who want to get started working right away.
Medical Assistants: These professionals serve primarily in a physican’s office, helping doctors to see and treat patients. As over half of all doctor visits annually are done by individuals aged 65 and up, this is a very strong field.
Nursing Assistants: Providing much of the routine daily care for patients, nursing assistants are always in demand. Those willing to work in long-term care facilities, in nursing homes, or for home health care organizations can find job opportunities almost anywhere.
Pharmacy Technicians: Being a pharmacy tech allows you to work in grocery store and retail outlet pharmacies, as well as hospitals and nursing homes. Prescriptions are an especially important part of aging health care, so jobs in this field will continue to rise.
Of course, this isn’t an exhaustive list, and there are plenty of opportunities at the Master’s Degree level for those interested in fields like physical therapy, occupational therapy, and physician assisting.
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