Demonstrating Proficiency in Advanced Practice Nursing Roles in Gerontology: A New Path Forward

The U.S. Census Bureau confirms that as of 2023 there are 55.8 million Americans over the age of 65, representing 17.3% of the population. Older adults are living longer with complex health care needs, and our health care system does not have enough proficient providers. Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) care for older adults across almost all health care settings, yet few have the recognized specific proficiencies to care for older adults. Although the lack of knowledgeable, skilled providers for this population continues to be a challenge, advanced practice nurses now may emerge as one potential solution.