The Professionalization of Gerontology: A Canadian Perspective

Globally, the need for development of a competent workforce to serve the burgeoning older population is well documented. Persons with degrees in gerontology are prepared to fill positions in this labor market, yet they are not in demand. This research explores the path of professionalization of gerontologists in Canada as a means of increasing their contribution to the aging services workforce. A cross-sectional online survey of aging-service administrators (n = 66) was conducted in Ontario, Canada, to ascertain their perceptions of gerontologists as professionals in the service delivery to older persons. Aging-service administrators show low rates of hiring gerontologists and low knowledge of gerontological competencies. There was a significant (p < .05) relationship between the knowledge of gerontologist's competence and their rate of employment. The administrators expressed high interest in regulation and credentialing of gerontologists (63.6%). Credentialing of gerontologists is a means of professionalization that legitimizes the competence of this field as a profession. Education is needed—for governmental agencies and health and social service providers—on the role of gerontologists in meeting aging service workforce demands. Ultimately, regulatory policy considerations are needed.