Course Description
Interdisciplinary overview of gerontology from social,
psychological, biological, and public health perspectives.
Focused on contemporary issues of interest to individuals,
families, communities, practitioners, and scholars in our rapidly
aging society.
Athena Title
Foundations of Aging
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in GRNT 7100E
Prerequisite
Permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
- Students will be able to describe the history, present, and future of the field of gerontology.
- Students will be able to describe the major demographic trends in global and national aging, reflecting and understanding that how individuals perceive aging is heavily influenced by society and culture, shaping their own social identity and also their interactions with older adults.
- Students will be able to explain the aging process from a physical, social, psychological, and cultural perspective, examining the aging process through their own perception/lens as well as through a cultural lens.
- Students will be able to examine the social and economic issues facing older adults.
- Students will be able to apply foundational gerontological knowledge to common policy areas.
- Students will be able to analyze ethical issues related to aging, considering their own view, as well as opposing views and arguments.
Topical Outline
- History of Gerontology
- Biology- aging, health, and diseases
- Cognition and the aging brain
- Mental Health and aging
- Health Promotion and aging
- Retirement/Work
- Social and health policies for older adults
- Caregiving
- Diversity and aging
- Social Support and aging
- Environmental Gerontology
