Occupational Therapists: Help Older Adults Overcome Life’s Challenges

Older adults face unique challenges, from arthritis to Alzheimer’s disease, that can make everyday tasks harder. As time passes and life changes, occupational therapists are there with expertise, patience and kindness to help older adults hold on to what matters most.

As an occupational therapist, you’d apply your deep understanding of aging to help older adults live independently and enjoy a better quality of life. One day, you might identify fall hazards in a senior’s home. The next, you could prepare them for a long-awaited social outing. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities.

Your job responsibilities could include:

• Assessing patients’ ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs). 
• Helping patients improve mobility and maintain their independence.
• Collaborating with healthcare teams to develop personalized care plans.
• Implementing interventions to support patient’s memory and cognitive functions.
• Administering rehabilitation therapies to patients recovering from injury or illness.

Why Specialize in Aging?

Demand for occupational therapists is growing — 11% growth is expected by 2033, according the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This surge is driven, in part, by the aging baby-boom generation, with the number of U.S. adults age 65 and older expected to rise from 62 million to 84 million by 2054. If you’re looking for job security and purpose, becoming an occupational therapist who specializes in aging offers all that and more. 

How a Graduate Education Can Help

Specialized training is key to excelling in this dynamic field. A graduate program in aging provides in-depth knowledge of the unique needs of older adults, covering everything from common geriatric diseases to anti-aging interventions. As an occupational therapist, you can apply this knowledge to create more effective individualized treatment plans that address age-related conditions and support patient’s in their sunset years.

The University of Florida offers three online graduate programs designed for professionals like you:

• Master’s Degree in Innovative Aging Studies
• Master’s Degree in Medical Physiology and Aging 
• Geriatric Certificate in Aging and Geriatric Practice 

Which Program Is Right for You?

If you’re looking to better understand your patients and their struggles, our online master’s degree in innovative aging studies is an excellent choice. This flexible online program explores the biological, clinical, psychological, sociological and ethical aspects of aging, providing invaluable insights that can help you better connect with patients.

If you’re looking for a deep dive into age-related physiological changes, we recommend our online master’s degree in medical physiology and aging. Gain a strong foundation that will support your work with older adults by exploring how the human body works and how these processes change with age. 

If that’s not enough, our online programs: 

• Are affordably priced.
• Require no GRE or clinical experience. 
• Fit around your schedule.  

Take the Next Step on Your Career Path 

Want to become an occupational therapist who makes a difference in the lives of older adults while building a fulfilling, stable career? Apply today to UF and one of our online graduate programs in Innovative Aging Studies.

Questions? We’re Here to Help. 

Still have questions? Our student outreach and engagement specialists are here to help you decide if our online programs are right for you. Schedule a virtual meeting or email us your questions. We’ll be in touch soon!