The U.S. and many countries around the globe are undergoing an unprecedented population shift, resulting in larger proportions of people over the age of 60 than under the age of 15. This will result in changes in our workforce in terms of demographics and size. It will also increase the demand on our policies, products and services to reflect the growing diversity in health, needs and interests of older adults and aging communities.
Following the Friedman Lecture in May 2014, the Harvey A. Friedman Center for Aging hosted a meeting with 25 faculty, staff and students to discuss how Washington University in St. Louis can strengthen its role in preparing a workforce for an aging society. We will develop short and long term action steps for the Friedman Center to take in encouraging more students to prepare for careers related to aging society and support faculty, staff and students currently in the field.
In the meantime, we encourage you to review the meeting summary (PDF) and send us any feedback you may have on the recommendations listed or any additional ideas. You can send us an email at CenterforAging@wustl.edu or call us at 314-747-9192.