Importance and Adequacy of Practice Competencies for Care Professionals in Aging-Related Fields

Abstract

The rapid growth of the older population has increased the need for care professionals with training in gerontology or geriatrics. This study analyzes the perceived importance and adequacy of practice competencies for entry-level care professionals in aging-related fields in Hong Kong. The administrators of non-government organizations that provide aging-related services were surveyed. The most important competencies, those underperformed, and some that were cross-culturally relevant were identified. Potential areas and new directions for the development of competencies for care professionals were also examined. The methods used in this study could serve as a reference for further studies in gerontology and geriatrics education.