Gerontological nursing includes generalist and specialist practice. Gerontological nursing is the specialty of nursing pertaining to older adults. Gerontological dietitians are specialists in nutrition and aging. Registered nurses have the option of becoming certified in gerontological nursing. Standards of practice for gerontological nursing were published by the American Nurses Association in 1971. Gerontological nursing draws on knowledge about complex factors that affect the health of older adults. Gerontological nursing is important to meet the health needs of an aging population. Pioneers in the field of gerontological nursing include Vera McIver, Doris Schwartz, Mary Opal Walanin. It covers advances in knowledge and practice in gerontological nursing. The Adult and Gerontological Nurse Practitioner program leads to eligibility for national certification. Institutions for gerontological care (retirement homes, nursing homes) are also important services. The Academy also recognizes and certifies certain specialty areas, such as in Gerontological Nutrition. The approach of vulnerability in itself brings great expectations of social policy and gerontological planning. Dov Shmotkin is a Fellow of the Gerontological Society of America. Bernice Neugarten was president of The Gerontological Society of America starting in 1969.