Elder Care Course and Aging Services

About the course

This elder care course serves as a vital starting point for individuals eager to pursue careers in caregiving or working with older adults. Aging services are not just about providing physical care but about fostering a supportive environment that promotes mental, emotional, and social well-being for older adults. This program is ideal for health care professionals, family members caring for a loved one at home, or anyone interested in entering the elder care field.

The global demand for elder care jobs, from caregivers to administrators in senior living communities, has skyrocketed. This course equips you with practical knowledge to make an impact, helping improve the quality of life for older individuals through specialized care. Additionally, it offers pathways to advanced degrees and certifications, paving the way for career growth in a field that is not only rewarding but essential to society.

Convert course into college credit

Whether you’re looking to learn a new subject or pivot into a new career, noncredit courses can be stacked into credit toward an MSU Denver degree or credential. Learn more about converting Career Launchpad courses into credit on our FAQ page.

Future outlook of aging services

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What students are saying about Career Launchpad

The majority of students who completed a post-course survey in spring 2025 report:

✓ Increased knowledge, skills, and understanding of the subject matter.

✓ Were highly satisfied with the overall experience of the course.

✓ Agreed that the subject matter was organized and presented effectively.

Approximate return on investment for each academic pathway

Aging services and caregiving represent a rapidly growing sector in health care, driven by the increasing demand for professionals who can care for and support the aging population. With various academic pathways available, from online courses to advanced degrees, you can build a rewarding career while making a meaningful impact on individuals and communities. Explore various pathways that lead from online courses to rewarding careers in aging services, each with promising job prospects and competitive salaries.

The field of aging services offers not only fulfilling careers but also financial stability. With each academic milestone, you can expect to increase your earning potential while expanding your expertise in a high-demand industry. Whether you’re looking for a quick entry into the workforce or aiming for long-term career advancement, there are numerous opportunities to specialize in leadership, caregiving, and long-term care management.

Pathway 1: Enter the workforce quickly. Complete the Aging Services course and immediately enter the workforce with your new skills.

• Median salary is $30,100 per year.

Pathway 2: Continue your academic journey and earn an Aging Services Leadership Digital Badge.

• Median salary is $38,000 a year.

Pathway 3: Continue your academic journey and earn an Aging Services Leadership Certificate. Roles include being an assistant activity director or other positions in senior communities.

• Median salary is $42,000 a year.

Pathway 4: Continue your academic journey and go onto degree programs to earn a degree in Aging Services Leadership, which allows you to increase your earning potential. You can find a job as an Activity Director or other similar roles with seniors.

• Median salary is $55,000 a year.

Pathway 5: Continue even further in your education with a Master’s in Health Administration and earn more money with a license from the National Association of Long-Term Care Administrator Board.

• Median salary is $110,000 a year.

By offering clear and diverse career pathways, MSU Denver’s Aging Services course caters to learners at all stages of their careers. Whether you’re just entering the field or looking to advance into leadership and administrative roles, these pathways provide the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed in a rewarding and growing industry.

Elder Care Course Overview

This introductory course is designed to give students a well-rounded understanding of aging and caregiving, covering a variety of important topics such as:

• Physical and Mental Changes in Older Adults: Learn about the physiological and psychological changes that come with aging, such as mobility limitations, cognitive decline, and emotional well-being.
• Common Health Issues Affecting Older Adults: Explore prevalent health challenges, including chronic diseases, mobility impairments, and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Understand how to manage these issues effectively through caregiving strategies.
• Effective Communication Strategies for Engaging Older Adults: Communication is key in caregiving. You will learn how to effectively communicate with older adults, fostering engagement, inclusion, and trust, even in challenging situations.

This self-paced, online course is an excellent fit for those seeking a flexible learning schedule while gaining skills that can lead to rewarding careers. This course can be stacked into an MSU Denver credential or degree.