Course Descriptions

Intro to Gerontology: 3 Credits

This course is an overview of the multidisciplinary study of the biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging. This course explores the human aging process from these perspectives. Attention is also given to programs and services for the elderly.

Biology of Aging: 3 Credits

This course will explore biological changes that occur with aging, including descriptions of population aging and theories on how and why we age. It will focus on the process of aging in the various body systems, and the clinical implications of age-related diseases.

Death & Dying: 3 Credits

This course provides students with the biological, sociological, and psychological perspectives of death, dying, and bereavement in our society and around the world as well as Advanced Care Planning.

Dementia & Alzheimer’s Care: 3 Credits

This course will focus on dementia care, communication, and treatment issues for individuals with alzheimer’s, memory loss, and other dementias. We will examine the important issue of co-morbidities with an emphasis on strategies to assist caregivers in dealing with the challenges of daily living with dementia.

Psychosocial Aspects of Aging: 3 Credits

This course is an examination of the issues surrounding the adult aging process, including personality and intellectual change, mental health of the older adult, and the psychological issues of extending human life. Analysis of the social dimensions of old age, including changing demographic structure and role changes and their impact on society will also be studied.

Healthy Aging: 3 Credits

This course provides an overview of practices to promote healthy aging.  Topics covered include nutrition, physical activity, and prevention practices. Emphasis is on practices to address current aging trends.