Gerontology: The Study of Aging
Goals
As the elderly population in the United States continues to grow, there is a corresponding increase in the need to prepare a workforce with the appropriate knowledge, skills, and values. Some students are preparing for careers that will bring them in direct contact with older adults in health and human services, government, business, or education. Others may have less direct contact; but because older adults represent a large and growing segment of the population, students in every major will benefit from an understanding of the interests, abilities and needs of older adults.
The gerontology program will not only introduce students to the study of aging and the aged, it will provide opportunities for experiential learning, including research training, internships and community service placements working with the elderly.
Courses
An introduction to the field of gerontology. The course takes a multidisciplinary approach to the study of aging and older adults, considering biological, psychological and sociological perspectives. GRN 100 is open to all students; there are no prerequisites. The course can count as a social science, or as a cultural diversity course.
Physical changes and common pathologies associated with the aging process, with special emphasis on the psychological and social implications of these changes in the lives of older adults. Key topics include theories of aging; changes and disorders in the skeletal, nervous, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems; dementia, delirium, and mild cognitive impairment.
Various models of mental health and their relevance to older adults are considered. The course focuses on the most commonly occurring mental health problems and disorders in later life. The prevalence of each disorder, its causes, appropriate assessments, and effective treatments are discussed.
An opportunity for students to conduct collaborative research under the supervision of a faculty mentor or engage in an independent study program. Both options require a written report.
Individual research of a substantive nature pursued in the student's major field of study. The research will conclude in a written thesis or an original project, and an oral defense.
Individual research of a substantive nature pursued in the student's major field of study. The research will conclude in a written thesis or an original project, and an oral defense.
An integration of the disciplines of ethics and aging. Critical issues include dementia, long-term care, ageism, public policy, medical treatments, elder abuse, disaster response, determinants of consent (for research participants and for patients), euthanasia, patient autonomy, and the challenges of resource allocation.
A work-study program providing relevant employment experience. The objective of the program is to integrate classroom theory and practical work experience, thus lending relevancy to learning and providing the student with a realistic exposure to career opportunities.
A work-study program providing relevant employment experience. The objective of the program is to integrate classroom theory and practical work experience, thus lending relevancy to learning and providing the student with a realistic exposure to career opportunities.
A work-study program providing relevant employment experience. The objective of the program is to integrate classroom theory and practical work experience, thus lending relevancy to learning and providing the student with a realistic exposure to career opportunities.
A work-study program providing relevant employment experience. The objective of the program is to integrate classroom theory and practical work experience, thus lending relevancy to learning and providing the student with a realistic exposure to career opportunities.