SOCIOLOGY OF AGING

Catalog description

Examines age as a social construct and aging as a social process. Course explores the effects of social institutions and social norms on the aging individuals. Topics covered are: the study of aging, ageism, sociological theories/perspectives of aging, current social research on issues of aging, views of aging in other societies past and present, demographics of the aging population, the life course, race and ethnicity, the healthcare system, retirement and work, gender inequalities, housing and transportation, recreation and leisure, family life, and politics and social policies. Particular attention to the sociological perspective of the aging process will be investigated. Course includes a service learning requirement.