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Welcome to the homepage of the Aging Studies Program at The University of Iowa. I am pleased that you are seeking more information about our Aging Studies Program and what we have to offer. As the Coordinator of the Program I am frequently asked, “why should I earn a certificate in aging studies?” I usually respond by saying that I believe there are at least three overriding reasons. The first reason is very pragmatic. Life expectancy increased dramatically during the twentieth century. This is true not just in the industrialized nations, but in most developing countries as well. While much of the gains have been made in life expectancy from birth, there has been a more recent trend toward increased longevity beyond age 65. In many industrialized nations the oldest-old (age 85+) are growing at a faster rate than any other cohort. The number of centenarians (people aged 100 or older) has also shown significant growth. What this means, in very practical terms, is that the job market in the field of gerontology can be expected to grow at a rapid rate for at least the next several decades. Students majoring in almost any one of Iowa’s academic programs may find employment working directly or indirectly with older adults. Earning an Aging Studies certificate allows students to enhance their knowledge and skills and better qualify them to work with an older population. The second reason I give in response to “why aging studies” is far more personal. The process of aging is the most basic of all human experiences; the one experience we all share in common. Nonetheless, most peoples’ understanding of the process of aging is filled with myths and misconceptions. Selecting Aging Studies course work is one way we can enhance our understanding our own aging experience as well as that of our loved ones. My third answer to “why aging studies” may be found in the faces of the three ladies in the photograph located on this page. While the quantity of years we live on average has increased dramatically, the real issue for most people is about adding quality to those years. A speaker at a conference I recently attended put it this way, “like all of us, older people need to have dreams as well as memories.” For many, the most frightening aspect of growing old is fears about issues such as illness, dependency, and loneliness. All to often older adults are portrayed in ways that further enhance the image of later life as a period of sickness and sadness. While it is indeed true that later life is difficult for some, there are many others who find late adulthood to be a period of growth and fulfillment. The ladies depicted in the above photograph capture this image. They appear involved, engaged, and enthusiastic, an image of aging that is filled with hope. The challenge we face as a society is to try to make old age a period of life that is meaningful and rewarding. Successful aging begins with insight and understanding. It is this approach to aging the our Program seeks to nurture. I encourage you to take the time to read about our Aging Studies Program. If you have any questions or seek more information please do not hesitate to contact me. I may be reached by e-mail (richard-macneil@uiowa.edu) or phone (319-335-9179). Richard D. MacNeil, Professor |
© 2008 The University of Iowa 
