OT: Is there a Gereontology Major out there?

Hi all. I thought that a while back I remembered someone saying they were looking for work in their field of Gereontology (the elderly).
My niece is at a bit of a crossroads in her college life. She's a freshman now and has decided she doesn't want to be a teacher anymore, but that she loves the elderly and would rather work with them. Here's the issue: She doesn't want to work as a nurse or a psychologist, in her words "I just want to play with them".

Any ideas on how she can turn this love and affection for senior citizens into a career? All I can come up with is nursing home or assisted living activites director.

Thanks for the input...feel free to PM me!

Music therapists, activites director, a volunteer coordinator, physical therapists - a few that I can think of.  I'm not sure what type of schooling or anything.  But have her read up on the internet on those types of jobs.  Or have her look at job openings at a nursing home.

k

Thanks Kelly,
I'll tell her...by the way...Lookin' Good!

Since Kelly is sooo smart and stole ALL my answers:

Yeah, what Kelly said!........HUGS Kelly!

Best to your neice!!  I like working with the elderly too!   They have such awesome stories to tell!

Sweetsue617 lives in Canada and just finished her schooling. I bet she would be a great help.

Good Luck,

Karen

there is a recreational therapy major at st. cloud state that is training for "playing" in a therapeutic setting. 

 

I have to agree with Kelly. She's covered  my suggestions!

IF your niece has any spare time, maybe she could volunteer at a nursing home or senior center. These places are always looking for volunteers to help with various activities.

I'm always in awe of the stories the elderly have. What breaks my heart is when they start developing dementia or Alzheimers and have a hard time remembering their past. Eventually the essential person is gone.

Best of luck to your niece!

you've got PM--luckily you hit my forte'