Lisa Hollis-Sawyer, associate professor, psychology, and program coordinator, gerontology, anticipates that these program changes will appeal to practitioners across many fields. She said, "Professionals in all fields need to better understand how to better serve a population whose average age will continue to rise until about the year 2030. This includes healthcare, social services, legal advocacy, and human resources."

The changes in the program were made with a working practitioner in mind. The new certificate program requires 12 credit hours, which includes a practicum. All classes for the program will be offered during evenings or weekends and can be completed within one year. The non-thesis option for the master's degree program will require a research proposal, but students will take a comprehensive exam in lieu of a thesis.

The application of the knowledge gained through NEIU's gerontology program is quickly becoming an important job skill.  In 2011, the first of the Baby Boomer generation (birth years 1946 — 1964) will turn 65 years old. Because this generation has such a large population—75 million—the impact on society of their needs will be great.

Recent news stories have reported on some of the employment and financial issues facing this group, including delayed retirement and more long-term unemployment. Further, many Baby Boomers help support both children and parents. Hollis-Sawyer said, "Many people can't afford to retire."

In addition to employment and financial issues, healthcare has become of paramount importance to this generation. In order to meet the needs of this generation, Social Security and Medicare programs will need to be revamped. According to Hollis-Sawyer, most medical schools only offer one or two courses in gerontology, and the current reimbursement systems do not give a lot of incentives for doctors to care for elderly patients.

While Hollis-Sawyer believes that more geriatric care is needed, she also sees a need for more preventative wellness. In addition to maintaining health and productivity through diet and activity level, there are proactive steps that can be taken in anticipation of many of the issues the elderly encounter. She said, "A fall can be a life-changing event for the elderly. A proactive effort could include working on balance to help avoid falls."