Erickson School to help prepare the country for an older population

By Mark Abromaitis
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

It’s a startling realization. It’s a reality for everyone. And it’s something people will have to face—America is growing collectively older as a nation.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 1950 only 10% of the U.S. population was over the age of 65. But by 2030, some estimates show that over 70% of the nation’s population will be age 65 or older.

To meet the need of this population in the upcoming years and change the negative image of aging, the Erickson School on Aging Studies has opened at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC).

What it’s all about
“It’s about changing the negative perceptions on aging,” says John Erickson, founder of the school. “It’s about preparing the leaders of tomorrow for the many tasks at hand. Society is changing, and we’re tackling these issues head on.”

The school will study every aspect of aging—undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs focus on areas such as community planning; social services; real estate; financial services; policy analysis and development; technology; travel, leisure, and hospitality; health care management; housing; and marketing and product design.

Erin McClintock, a senior at UMBC, says she believes the Erickson School brings a new perspective to growing older. “I like the outlook and the holistic approach Erickson takes. They are looking at every possible aspect of an older person’s life.”

Outreach efforts
Recently almost 70 high school and college students who work in the dining services department at Maris Grove, an Erickson community in Glen Mills, Pa., gathered for the opportunity to meet with an admissions officer from UMBC.

Katie Liegeot, a high school junior and employee at Maris Grove, says the Erickson School is a good option. “I’m not sure what I want to do just yet, but it’s good to know there are programs like this,” she says.