Communication specialists, or communicologists, have several problems to overcome before their contributions to the study of gerontology can receive the recognition they deserve. Communicologists, for example, need to define their discipline and expertise more clearly and succinctly. In order to be credible to gerontologists and other professionals in the field, communicologists also need a sound, broadly based understanding of the various aspects of the processes of aging, as well as the social, physical, and economic problems that society imposes on the elderly. Such knowledge can have a profound effect on the communicologist's own perspectives and effectiveness. Communicologists must also become more visible by participating in gerontological programs on campuses and in the community and at major conferences in other disciplines. Finally, communicologists need to share in research involving professionals in other disciplines, and to undertake more research on their own. (FL)