Announcing the new Diploma in Gerontology

It is with great pleasure that I announce the launch of a comprehensive, applied and interdisciplinary two-year Diploma in Gerontology to be offered within the Department of Social Services in September 2018. This unique program is the only entry-level diploma program with a concentration in gerontology offered in BC.

Please join us for the program launch and information session

DATE:              Wednesday, February 28, 5:00 pm
LOCATION:  T Building Gallery, 2^nd floor
RSVP:               Pavanpreet Sodhan at psodhan@langara.ca by Tuesday, February 20, 2018

The program prepares students to work with the increasing population of older persons. Statistics Canada’s 2016 census indicates that for the first time, older persons outnumber children in this country. Development of this unique program is a direct response to the profound and far-reaching changes in Canadian demographics. The needs of this aging population will require a comprehensive multidisciplinary response from knowledgeable, committed professionals who are trained to respond thoughtfully and compassionately to the diverse range of needs presented by older persons.

The majority of older persons will want to “age in place” in their own homes and communities. Older persons will require assistance in order to remain physically active, be socially engaged, build “resilience” and be as healthy and independent as possible in their homes and communities. This means that they will require a range of services in health and wellness, education, recreation, community supports and advocacy as they navigate the health care and social service systems. Services will likely be offered through senior centers, community centers, neighbourhood houses, community coalitions, ethno-cultural organizations, Indigenous communities, family service agencies, as well as hospitals and residential care facilities. Palliative care will also increasingly be needed for older adults and their family members as they transition through end of life care.

This is a dynamic and exciting field with tremendous career opportunities for people who have a passion for working with older persons, families, communities and professionals as they develop new and innovative practices and approaches in gerontology. The aim of this program is to position students for a career in the field of gerontology where there will be increasing reliance on community-based agencies to provide health promotion, prevention and support services to older adults in order to prevent social isolation, along with effectively managing both physical and mental health needs.

The aging population is culturally diverse and the program has a strong emphasis on understanding the aging process in the context of Indigenous and other diverse cultural values and beliefs. Student will apply specialized knowledge, theory and ethics within gerontology service settings while developing professional practical skills.

This distinctive program positions students for a satisfying career in Gerontology.