Geriatric Psychology Programs

Geriatric Psychology is a psychology subspecialty that addresses the mental health needs of the elderly. Geriatric psychologists often operate private practices, but can work in a variety of settings including community health centers and nursing homes. They may also focus on research to better understand, control and predict the behavior of older adults.

Walden University

Featured Programs:
BS in Psychology - Graduate School Prep

Southern New Hampshire University

Featured Programs:
BA in Psychology/Child & Adolescent Development (Online)

One may consider this profession both counseling- and research-oriented. The geriatric psychologist can help families by helping the patient. As common problems of the elderly, such as dementia and Alzheimer's take over, the geriatric psychologist is equipped to understand the most common changes, and is in a position to prepare both the patient and the patient's family for the challenges ahead.

Useful Geriatric Psychology Resources

• The American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry
• American Journal of Geriatric Psych
• Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neurology

Capella University

Featured Programs:
MS in General Psychology (Online)
MS in Child and Adolescent Development

Post University

Featured Programs:
BA in Psychology (Online)

Geriatric Psychologist Methods of Operation

The geriatric psychologist specializes in the observation, study, and treatment of persons with mental disorders in the later stages of life. With psychology itself a relatively new field of study, geriatric psychiatry is continuing to evolve as more becomes known about how the brain functions, especially in older adults. A person, who works in this field, will study brain patterns and compare with the behaviors of older adults.

In addition to these activities, the geriatric psychiatrist can act as an invaluable resource in the medical treatment of depression and dementia, which are two of the most common mental disorders among the elderly. If they are not working directly with older patients, they are able to provide the advice and the plan of treatment necessary for those, who directly attend to them.

Kaplan University

Featured Programs:
BS Psychology (Online)

Northcentral University

Featured Programs:
MA in Health Psychology (Online)

Careers in Geriatric Psychology

An individual, who pursues a geriatric psychology degree, will likely end up working in private consultation or with medical organizations. Some choose to apply their knowledge to academia through professorships. Whichever path one chooses, this subspecialty is a rewarding as one realizes that the advancements made today can directly impact the lives of current and future generations.

Professionals in this area generally average around $70,000-$80,000 per year. Those in private consultation, who have a more entrepreneurial mindset may be able to earn more, but either way it is a lucrative profession, and through its ties to health care, it is one in higher demand. As current generations age and more is discovered about brain functionality, the prospects can only grow more rewarding.

Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Featured Programs:
MA in Applied Forensic Psychology (Online)

Geriatric Psychology Education and Training

A professional, who works in geriatric psychology, will need to attain a doctorate degree, which is awarded either as Doctor of Philosophy or Psychology in most states. Separate licensing exams may also be required. Some states may also require a one-year supervised fellowship before final licensing is granted.