HA 655 - Gerontology Explores definitions, myths, and expectations of growing older in contemporary U.S. society. Demographic characteristics are examined, especially those impacting health and long-term care administration. Biological, psychological, and social-cultural aspects of aging are analyzed. Special attention is given to cultural competencies and maintenance of person-environmental congruence.
The focus is on family caregiving and health / enabling technologies to support aging-in-place. Aging, spirituality, and spiritual care are explored within the context of adapting to transitions along the continuum-of-care. Interfaith and cross-cultural aspects of religious beliefs and practices are noted, especially as they shape health practices and outcomes. We then address ethical decision-making and end-of-life care, issues often confronted by health and senior care leaders.
Assignment Overview Term-Based
Assignments: 12 weekly assignments
Interactivity: Weekly live session
Course Learning Objectives Upon completion of this course, you should be able to do the following:
- Recognize and refute the prevalent myths about aging in contemporary U.S. society.
- Describe the key demographic characteristics of older adults that may impact the field of health administration.
- Analyze the factors that may influence life expectancy, especially the achievement of extreme longevity.
- Apply the major theories of aging from biology, psychology, and sociology to understand the aging process in U.S. society.
- Examine age-history, period-cohort effects as they relate to an individuals experience of aging.
- Identify the important cultural competencies needed to serve elder health consumers of diverse racial-ethnic backgrounds.
- Develop a public policy model that is responsive to the long-term care provided by families and informal support networks.
- Identify ways in which GeroTechnology can be used in providing home-based care by family and informal support networks.
- View the range of functions served by spirituality and faith-based practices in elder care across the continuum.
- Recognize the ethical issues central to end-of-life care and decision making.
- Envision older adults as mentors, teaching us how to prepare for our future selves.
Credits: 3
Add to Portfolio (opens a new window)
|