A major workforce shortage is coming that will immeasurably impact the welfare of our senior citizens.
Between 2019 and 2034, the number of Americans aged 65 and older is projected to grow by about 40%, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). During the same period, the AAMC predicts a possible physician shortfall of 124,000.
This math is concerning, but it also presents a tremendous opportunity for aspiring gerontologists, geriatricians and other professionals who help older adults. Many of these diverse roles offer the potential of high earnings, and some may surprise you.
High-Paying Gerontology Careers Beyond Traditional Roles
Careers that promote the well-being of older adults can extend well beyond healthcare roles, including the following examples:
Retirement Coach
Retiring after a decades-long career can be a major life change, both financially and psychologically. Many soon-to-be retirees can understandably become anxious about the transition.
Fortunately, there are professionals who can guide them into their new life, helping them set goals and plans for a fulfilling retirement. Retirement coaches are typically consultants who work independently in a non-salaried position but may earn $300 or more per hour.
Senior Move Manager
Often members of the National Association of Senior Move Managers, these professionals specialize in assisting older adults with the challenges of downsizing, relocating or transitioning to a new home. Many have experience in fields like social work or case management, equipping them to understand and address the unique needs of seniors.
Senior move managers coordinate a range of services, from offering guidance and support to managing the sale of property, organizing belongings and overseeing the entire moving process to ensure a smooth transition. The median annual pay for senior move managers is $106,000, and individuals at the top of the position’s pay range can earn up $143,000 annually.
Aging-in-Place Consultant
At the opposite end of the spectrum from senior move managers are specialists who help older adults continue to live where they are, albeit with some modifications. Aging-in-place consultants recommend and oversee the installation of ramps, grab bars, stairlifts, medical alert systems and other domestic modifications for seniors.
In addition, these specialists can coordinate the addition of smart-home technologies that automate lighting, thermostats and security equipment via touchscreen or remote control. Annual salaries for this profession range from $82,985 to $107,123.
Gerontechnologist
This relatively new and evolving specialty exists at the intersection of gerontology and technology. Practitioners focus on developing tools to assist seniors and empower them to live longer, more independent and fulfilling lives. Top annual salaries for related roles include:
- Health Technology Specialist: $147,000
- Health Technology Assessment Analyst: $125,000
- Assistive Technology Specialist: $101,000
Elder Law Attorney
For those wishing to advocate for the legal interests of older adults, the combination of a gerontology-associated university credential and a law degree provides an excellent foundation for a career as an elder law attorney. Nationwide salaries for this position range from an annual average of $108,160 to $172,500 for the top 2% of earners.
Intergenerational Program Coordinator
These professionals arrange and manage social and recreational programs that bring together individuals from different generations. The goal? To foster greater understanding about commonalities, share age-related knowledge and forge enriching, unique friendships that help mitigate the loneliness older adults may experience. Pay for this role can vary by state and region.
Medical or Health Services Manager
While this may not be an unconventional career for someone interested in helping aging adults, it is a well-paying role in high demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the median annual pay for this position at $110,680 and a much faster than average expected growth rate of 29% through 2033.
Prepare for a Rewarding Gerontology Career
These careers represent just a few of the many possible professional directions you can take as you help meet the complex needs of older adults. No matter which you choose, the vital work that you do on behalf of seniors and the potential compensation can make for a truly rewarding experience. These online University of Florida programs will help you get closer to your professional goals:
Online Master’s Degree in Innovative Aging Studies (30 credits)
Explore aging from clinical, biological, psychological, legal, ethical and sociological perspectives with the objective of supporting older adults. This program does not require a thesis.
Online Master’s Degree in Medical Physiology and Aging (30 credits)
If you’re unsure which professional path to pursue in gerontology, expand your opportunities with a unique master’s degree that integrates elements from both our gerontology program and medical physiology graduate certificate.
Online Graduate Certificate in Aging and Geriatric Practice (15 credits)
Elevate your expertise and make your medical school application stand out with our online graduate certificate program. If you choose to pursue UF’s online master’s degree in innovative aging studies, you can apply up to 15 credits from this certificate and complete the degree twice as fast!
Choose UF for Quality and Convenience
- Secure admission without GRE scores or clinical experience.
- Complete any of the above programs in as little as one year.
- Enjoy affordable tuition no matter where you live.
- Learn from leading gerontology researchers and experts.
- Study at your own pace through entirely online, asynchronous courses.
- Earn valued credentials from an institution ranked among the nation’s:
- Best National Universities
- Top Public Schools
- Best Value Schools
- Most Innovative Schools
- Best Colleges for Veterans
Sources:
https://online.aging.ufl.edu/student-resources/career-paths/
https://research.com/careers/gerontology-careers
https://www.scijournal.org/articles/highest-paying-gerontology-jobs
https://www.apa.org/pi/aging/resources/careers/index