The number of people who enter the geriatric workforce is staggeringly low. Most barriers to geriatrics occur at the individual and systematic levels, and is exacerbated by ageism.

Barriers to Entering the Geriatric Workforce

Most medical providers assume that pain, physical deterioration, depression, and cognitive decline are expected symptoms in aging adults, and do not treat other potential medical conditions properly.

Consequence of Ageism in a Healthcare-Centric Geriatric Workforce  

The number of people who hold jobs that support the older population. 

Santa Clara University

Geropsychology is the field that studies the psychological impact of aging and its influence on the declining quality of life. Typically, people over the age of 65 are considered geriartic. 


Geropsychology

Shea, Adam, et al. “Students’ Attitudes and Intention to Work with Older Adults in the Era of Covid-19.” GeroPsych, vol. 35, no. 1, 2022, pp. 5–16., https://doi.org/10.1024/1662-9647/a000274. 

Students’ Attitudes and Intention to Work with Older Adults in the Era of Covid-19.

The mental health problems of older adults get overlooked due to the more pressing issues that arise with physical conditions and lessened mobility. But psychologists recommend addressing the following areas of concern: 
- Adjustment to stressors in late life
- Counseling
- Capacity Assessment
- Caregiving by family or facility
- Establish psychoeducational support groups
- End-of-life care


Treatment Focuses for Geriatric Patients

Older adults may face tremendous difficulties in coping with their increasing disability and physical conditions with the onset of a mental illness. Furthermore, they may struggle to adequately help other people, like a sick spouse, or retain a good relationship with family members. This results in them feeling isolated and experiencing more intense effects of their mental condition.

Effects of Late-Life Mental Illness

Severity of Health Problems in Older Adults

- Physical Chronic Disorders
- Mental Chronic Disorders
- Co-Morbid Disorders

Illnesses in Geriatric Adults

Ageism is a form of prejudice and discrimination directed at individuals solely because of their age, often stemming from societal judgments and expectations. While commonly associated with negative attitudes toward older adults—such as viewing them as incompetent, physically weak, or slow—ageism can also be directed at younger adults, who may be stereotyped as immature and irresponsible.

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