ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition (Dip Gerontological Nutrition)

The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition (Dip Gerontological Nutrition) is an advanced qualification designed for learners seeking specialised knowledge in nutrition for older adults. With populations ageing globally, understanding the unique nutritional needs, metabolic changes, and health challenges of older individuals has become increasingly important. This diploma equips learners with the expertise to support healthy ageing, manage age-related conditions, and promote wellbeing through targeted nutritional strategies.

Learners gain in-depth knowledge of the physiological, cognitive, and metabolic changes associated with ageing, and how these impact dietary requirements, nutrient absorption, and health outcomes. The programme also explores the role of nutrition in preventing or managing chronic diseases common in older populations, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and sarcopenia. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice, enabling learners to critically appraise scientific research and apply findings to real-world gerontological nutrition scenarios.

This diploma provides a comprehensive understanding of dietary assessment, intervention planning, and monitoring for older adults in clinical, community, and residential care settings. Learners develop skills to design personalised nutrition programmes, enhance quality of life, and contribute to public health initiatives focused on ageing populations.

Ideal for nutritionists, dietitians, healthcare professionals, and those aspiring to specialise in elderly care, this qualification supports Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and professional growth.

By completing the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition, learners will be equipped to apply advanced nutritional principles to improve health outcomes, influence policy, and deliver high-quality care for older adults, making a meaningful impact in clinical, community, and research settings worldwide.

Course overview

Level 6 Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition (Dip Gerontological Nutrition)

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition (Dip Gerontological Nutrition), learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 19 years old at the time of registration.
  • Educational Background: A recognised qualification at Level 5 or equivalent in nutrition, dietetics, health sciences, biology, or a related discipline is required. Applicants with alternative qualifications may also be considered if they can demonstrate relevant prior learning or professional experience.
  • Work Experience: While not compulsory, prior experience in nutrition, dietetics, healthcare, or elderly care is highly advantageous. This ensures learners can engage effectively with the advanced clinical and applied content of the diploma.
  • English Proficiency: As the programme is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate adequate language skills to follow the course. Non-native speakers are expected to have proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 or above, or evidence of prior education or professional work conducted in English.
  • Additional Requirement: A strong interest in gerontology, elderly care, and applied nutrition will support learners in maximising the value of this qualification. Commitment to professional growth and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is also encouraged.
  • Centre Requirements: Centres offering this qualification must have qualified staff, appropriate resources, and effective systems in place to ensure high-quality delivery and learner success.

This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition (Dip Gerontological Nutrition), consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Physiological and Metabolic Changes in Ageing
  2. Nutritional Requirements and Dietary Planning for Older Adults
  3. Management of Age-Related Health Conditions through Nutrition
  4. Assessment and Monitoring in Gerontological Nutrition
  5. Public Health, Policy, and Community Approaches to Elderly Nutrition
  6. Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Gerontological Nutrition

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

Physiological and Metabolic Changes in Ageing

  • Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the physiological, metabolic, and cognitive changes associated with ageing.
  • Analyse how ageing impacts nutrient absorption, energy requirements, and overall health.
  • Evaluate the implications of age-related changes for dietary planning and nutrition interventions.
  • Apply knowledge to support healthy ageing and prevent age-related nutritional deficiencies.

Nutritional Requirements and Dietary Planning for Older Adults

  • Assess the specific nutrient needs of older adults across different life stages.
  • Develop personalised dietary plans to optimise health, wellbeing, and functional independence.
  • Analyse the impact of dietary patterns on chronic disease prevention and management in older populations.
  • Apply evidence-based strategies to address malnutrition, sarcopenia, and other age-related nutritional challenges.

Management of Age-Related Health Conditions through Nutrition

  • Critically evaluate nutritional interventions for age-related conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and cognitive decline.
  • Design targeted dietary strategies to support disease prevention, management, and rehabilitation.
  • Integrate clinical, community, and research-based evidence to inform nutritional practice.
  • Monitor and adjust interventions based on health outcomes and individual response.

Assessment and Monitoring in Gerontological Nutrition

  • Conduct detailed nutritional assessments using validated tools and methodologies.
  • Interpret clinical and dietary data to inform personalised nutrition planning.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of nutritional interventions for older adults.
  • Apply monitoring techniques to ensure ongoing quality and efficacy of dietary strategies.

Public Health, Policy, and Community Approaches to Elderly Nutrition

  • Analyse public health initiatives, policies, and guidelines relevant to elderly nutrition.
  • Develop community-based strategies to improve dietary habits and health outcomes for older populations.
  • Evaluate the role of policy and advocacy in promoting gerontological nutrition.
  • Apply evidence-based practice to influence nutrition programmes and public health interventions.

Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Gerontological Nutrition

  • Demonstrate competence in research design, data collection, and statistical analysis in gerontological nutrition.
  • Critically appraise scientific literature to inform clinical and community practice.
  • Conduct research or small-scale studies to evaluate nutrition interventions for older adults.
  • Communicate research findings effectively to stakeholders, healthcare professionals, and policymakers.

The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition equips learners with advanced expertise in the nutritional care of older adults, preparing them for leadership, research, and specialist roles in healthcare, community services, and public health. Completion of this qualification opens pathways for academic advancement, professional development, and global career opportunities.

Academic Progression

  • Progress to Level 7 Diplomas, postgraduate certificates, or Master’s programmes in Gerontology, Clinical Nutrition, Public Health, or related fields.
  • Engage in research projects focusing on ageing, nutrition interventions, or chronic disease management in older populations.
  • Build a foundation for specialised Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses in elderly care, clinical nutrition, and evidence-based practice.

Professional Career Opportunities

Graduates may pursue roles such as:

  • Clinical Nutritionist or Dietitian specialising in elderly care and gerontological nutrition programmes.
  • Healthcare or Community Nutrition Manager overseeing dietary interventions for older adults in hospitals, care homes, or community settings.
  • Public Health Nutritionist contributing to policy, education, and community initiatives for healthy ageing.
  • Researcher or Analyst investigating age-related nutrition, dietary patterns, and interventions for older populations.
  • Educator or Trainer delivering gerontological nutrition knowledge to healthcare professionals, caregivers, or community programmes.

Industry Relevance and Global Opportunities

  • Address the growing global demand for skilled professionals in elderly nutrition and healthy ageing.
  • Collaborate with hospitals, care homes, community organisations, NGOs, and public health agencies.
  • Apply evidence-based gerontological nutrition strategies to prevent and manage age-related conditions.
  • Influence nutrition policy, programme development, and community interventions worldwide.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

  • Maintain and enhance expertise through workshops, seminars, and specialised training in gerontological nutrition.
  • Stay updated with emerging research, dietary trends, and innovations in elderly care.
  • Build professional networks with healthcare leaders, researchers, and community practitioners to support career progression and collaborative initiatives.

FAQs

This course is designed for learners seeking advanced expertise in the nutrition and care of older adults. It is ideal for nutritionists, dietitians, healthcare professionals, and those aspiring to specialise in gerontological nutrition, elderly care, and public health initiatives.

Learners must be at least 19 years old and hold a recognised Level 5 qualification or equivalent in nutrition, dietetics, health sciences, biology, or a related discipline. Relevant professional experience in elderly care, nutrition, or healthcare is advantageous but not compulsory. Non-native English speakers should demonstrate proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 or above.

ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition (Dip Gerontological Nutrition) is 60 Credits training program. As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centers.

ICTQual AB allows to offer Level 6 Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition (Dip Gerontological Nutrition) in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Gerontological Nutrition (Dip Gerontological Nutrition) consist of 6 mandatory assessments . These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%