A program for registered nurses who want to specialise in care for older adults. You’ll learn about the physical, mental, and social changes that come with ageing, and how to plan and deliver safe, effective care for elderly patients. Clinical placements are included so you can practice in real settings.

Many Students Choose This Program Because:

• It lets you specialise in an area with growing demand ageing populations mean more need for skills in elderly care.
• You gain knowledge in holistic care, physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing of older people.
• It opens up roles beyond general nursing—positions like gerontology nurse specialist, geriatric care manager, or roles in elder care homes.
  

Some Students Do Not Choose This Program Because:

• Caring for elderly patients can be emotionally challenging (decline, chronic illness, end-of-life issues).
• Requires strong communication skills, patience, and understanding of age-related medical issues.
• Some programs need you to have prior clinical experience and an active practising certificate, which not all nurses may have yet.
  

Lifestyle During Study:

• A combination of theory classes and clinical hands-on training with elderly patients.
• Studying modules like medical sciences (ageing body), behavioural sciences, health & wellness promotion, and trends/issues in elderly care.
• spending time in clinical placements—nursing homes, hospital wards with elderly patients, and community elderly care.
  

After Graduation:

• Likely to work in hospitals (geriatrics wards), elder care facilities, community health, or home care services.
• Possible roles include Gerontology Nurse Specialist, Geriatric Care Manager, or working in public health for ageing populations.
• Opportunity to progress into leadership, teaching roles, or further studies (diploma/degree in nursing or elderly care specialities).
  

What is Hard:

• Managing complex health conditions that often come together in older age (multiple illnesses, mobility issues, cognitive decline).
• Dealing with end-of-life care, emotional support for patients and families.
• Physical demands (lifting, moving patients) and adapting to slower healing, medication sensitivity, etc.
  

What is Easy:

• Structured learning with clear modules and objectives.
• Real-life practice helps you see progress quickly.
• Support from experienced nurses and educators.
  

Fun Fact

“Older patients often remember forgotten histories—gerontology nursing isn’t just care; it’s storytelling and companionship.”

This is for you if you like:

• Working with older people
• Combining medical care with emotional and social support
• Learning about body changes, chronic illness, ageing psychology
• A slower-paced, careful, compassionate approach
• Making a difference in quality of life
  

Career Opportunities:

• Gerontology Nurse Specialist
• Geriatric Care Manager
• Nursing/Gerontology Nurse
• Elder Care Home Supervisor
• Community Elderly Health Worker
• Clinical Instructor (Gerontology)
  

Relevant Certifications to consider:

• Certifications related to Elderly Care & Gerontology
• First Aid / Basic Life Support (if not already held)
• Certifications in Mental Health or Dementia Care
• Training in Geriatric Pharmacology or Chronic Disease Management