Gerontology Advisors
2025-06-30 00:21:24

New e-Learning Program to Train Industrial Gerontology Advisors Supporting Senior Employees

Training the Elderly Workforce: A New Frontier



In a world increasingly concerned about the aging population, the Japan Industrial Gerontology Association has stepped forward with a groundbreaking initiative. Starting on June 25, 2025, they will introduce a new certification course titled Industrial Gerontology Advisor Training Course. This program aims to equip companies with the skills needed to effectively harness the potential of their senior employees.

The Challenge of an Aging Workforce


Japan is experiencing a demographic shift, with the number of workers aged 65 and over reaching a staggering 9.1 million by 2023. This group now accounts for 13.5% of the total labor force, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications. Even in their early 70s, a significant one in three continue to work, holding the key to alleviating persistent labor shortages. However, there is a troubling trend: many companies continue to view older employees through a narrow lens, seeing them as less productive and, thus, a financial burden.

The current approach often reduces senior employees to merely a depreciated resource, lacking the recognition of their invaluable experience. This perspective must shift, and that is exactly what the Industrial Gerontology Advisor Training aims to facilitate. The course promotes a more positive view of older employees by redefining them as valuable human capital deserving of investment.

Addressing the Skills Gap


However, the responsibility should not rest solely on the older employees to prove their worth. Managers and support staff play a critical role in this transformation. Currently, many middle managers and Human Resources officers express their struggles regarding interactions with senior workers, often feeling ill-equipped to motivate or train them. Issues such as age-related prejudice or ageism may create barriers that hinder productivity and morale within teams.

To address these challenges, this new course is designed to develop professionals who can successfully manage and leverage the capabilities of older workers. Based on the discipline of Industrial Gerontology, the program provides practical training starting from a zero-knowledge base about managing older employees.

What is Industrial Gerontology?


Gerontology, or the study of aging, views the physical, psychological, and social changes that come with age holistically. When applied to human resource management within companies, this field expands into what is termed Industrial Gerontology. The curriculum will explore generational value differences, health risks, career planning, and legal systems to foster a supportive work environment that encourages senior employees to thrive.

Course Details and Structure


  • - Course Name: Industrial Gerontology Advisor Training Course
  • - Start Registration: June 25, 2025
  • - Course Begin Date: July 1, 2025
  • - Format: Online e-Learning
  • - Target Audience: Mid-level employees, managers, and HR personnel who work with senior employees
  • - Learning Method: Video instruction, reading materials → Completion examination → Qualification certification for successful candidates
  • - Course Fee: ¥33,000 (tax included) + Certification fee ¥3,000 (tax included)

The complete curriculum is divided into seven chapters:
1. Understanding Gerontology and Industrial Gerontology
2. Characteristics of an Aging Society
3. Legal Framework in Aging Society
4. Support for Balancing Work and Caregiving
5. Diverse Working Styles in Old Age
6. Career Development for Older Employees
7. Health Management and Workplace Safety Policies

Learning Outcomes


1. Enhance understanding and appreciation of the working elderly beyond caregiving and community involvement.
2. Acquire foundational knowledge that allows for personal career design in an aging society.
3. Improve the organization’s overall ability to manage its senior workforce effectively.

Future Prospects


The Japan Industrial Gerontology Association envisions integrating this training into new employee orientation and various hierarchical training programs in corporations. They aim to foster an environment where all generations comprehend and amplify each other’s strengths.

Additionally, recognizing the demand for face-to-face interaction, the association has plans to offer in-person training sessions. A free online information session is scheduled for July 10, 2025, from 18:30 to 19:00. For more details and enrollment, visit here.

For inquiries, contact the Japan Industrial Gerontology Association at info@jiga.jp or visit their official website here.


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