Please describe your experience in elderly care. Have you had hands on experience? Have you witnessed care of an elderly relative or friend? Why do you think that less than 13% of your peers chose gerontology as a discipline for their career?
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Introduction:
Elderly care is a critical area in healthcare, with an increasing aging population worldwide. As a medical professor, I have had extensive experience in teaching and training medical students on elderly care. This experience has been acquired through both theoretical and practical means.
Answer:
My experience in elderly care started when I was a medical Resident at a local hospital. During this time, I had the opportunity to work with elderly patients with different healthcare needs, such as chronic diseases, dementia, and limited mobility. It was a hands-on experience that provided me with the chance to understand the needs of the elderly better. Later on, I witnessed the care of my grandfather who lived with us until he passed away.
Less than 13% of my peers chose gerontology as a discipline for their career for various reasons. One of the primary reasons is the lack of awareness of the importance of gerontology in healthcare. Healthcare professionals may not recognize the acute care needs of the elderly and hence do not pay attention to this important area in healthcare. Additionally, healthcare has become more technology-driven, and some healthcare professionals may not be equipped with the right skills needed to care appropriately for the elderly. This skills gap may lead to a lack of understanding of the unique challenges associated with elderly care.
In conclusion, elderly care is an essential area of healthcare that requires attention and specialized skills. Healthcare professionals need to be equipped with the right knowledge and skills to care for the elderly appropriately. Encouraging more students to choose gerontology as a specialization can help to create more awareness and elevate the care of the elderly to a higher level.