Health Issues in Gerontology

Undergraduate

This course is designed to focus on contemporary biopsychosocial changes inherent in human aging. It includes an exploration of the theories, the meaning, and the epidemiology of aging, and public policy relevant to the diverse aging population in Canada. The course examines debates on health care rationing, self-determined death, mistreatment of older adults, and the impact of age on creativity and sexuality. It provides an overview of the influence of chronic illnesses and the social determinants of health on age, aging, and later life. The course also considers normal aging patterns and abnormal circumstances such as cognitive and mental health decline; and discusses implications for nursing and other service providers across disciplines as well as the health care and long-term care sectors in Ontario, Canada, and beyond. (Prerequisites: Successful completion of all year 3 fall required courses.) (Co-requisites: Registration in all courses required for third year winter semester.)