As this century grows older, the U.S. population will be aging right along with it. In fact, by mid-century, one in five Americans will be 65 years old or older, and more than 10 million Americans will be over age 85.

As we age, we not only may need more care but more expert care for the types of health conditions and concerns we’re likely to face. That’s why geriatrics is a fast-growing field.

Geriatrics is the medical field dedicated to the care of older adults. Physicians, nurses, pharmacists, social workers, mental health professionals, and many other health professionals may choose to specialize in geriatrics. Health care workers who care for older adults often work as a team, providing comprehensive care for patients, their caregivers and other family members too.

Opportunities in geriatrics careers and health care careers that include care of older people are projected to grow as the U.S. population ages. Some careers to consider if you are interested in working with older people are:

Learn More

• Aging & Health A to Z
• Doctor Shortage: Who Will Take Care of the Elderly?
• Gauging Aging: Mapping the Gaps Between Expert and Public Understandings of Aging in America 
• Learn About Careers in Aging
• Profiles in Geriatrics
• To Sell Medical Students On Joys Of Geriatrics, Send In 90-Year-Olds

The American Geriatrics Society reviewed this overview.