Ethical Issues in Aging ((4 Credits))

Catalog description

This course delves into the ethical challenges encountered by human service professionals working with older adults and families. It covers navigating complex family dynamics, supporting independence, upholding dignity and respect, ensuring safety, and honoring end-of-life wishes. Students will learn to employ one or more of several ethical decision-making models to address these issues, reduce risks, and advocate for the well-being and agency of older adults. Additionally, it explores the social implications of ageism in practice, policy, and the law, and encourages self-reflection and debate on the ethical implications of societal and cultural norms about aging. Lastly, students will identify and address ethical challenges specific to different care settings for older adults. This course meets the School of Human Services guideline for Ethics.