Career Opportunities
As Canada’s baby boomer population ages, the community-based older adult service sector is growing. This is a dynamic and exciting field with tremendous career opportunities for people who have a passion for working with older persons.
In The BC Labour Market Report 2023, on page 15, it is stated that as BC's population continues to age, health care and social assistance will see the largest increase in job openings over the next 10 years (166,300 job openings; 17% of total). Identified as part of the Care Economy, Social and Community Service Workers are listed as one of the top five occupations with 36,500 job openings in British Columbia from 2023 to 2033 (page 23).
Careers in Gerontology
There are a lot of career opportunities in Gerontology. You can apply your skills in business, cooking, botany, crafts, and exercise among others, to a fulfilling career working with older adults.
February 2020 | Amica - West Vancouver
Professionals in this sector are providing innovative services to older adults that prevent social isolation, promote mental, physical, and emotional health, ensure food security, and support older adults to age in place while staying active in their communities. Graduates from these programs are qualified to apply for positions in seniors-serving organizations like community centres, non-profit organizations, neighbourhood houses, assisted-living residences, adult day programs, and seniors centres.
Job titles include:
- recreation assistant
- life enrichment coordinator or assistant
- day program worker
- intake worker
- program manager or coordinator
- program and policy developer
- program facilitator
- research assistant
- information and referral counsellor
- advocate
- one to one support worker
In addition, students can combine these certifications with their previous areas of expertise to create services for older adults in niche markets.
Throughout the programs, students are introduced to the networks of services that exist in the community via field visits, guest speakers, and practicum opportunities.