Healthy Aging in the New Millennium

Catalog description

In this course the student will examine the influences associated with healthy aging through a variety of learning activities. Students will begin by learning about ageism and lifespan biological and genetic influences (allostatic load theory) on health outcomes. This biological foundation serves as a starting point to examine other factors (social, economic, cultural) that impact healthy aging. Students then apply communication skills through interaction on a one-to-one basis with older adults. Students complete basic assessments on common problems of day-to-day living (sleep, nutrition, mobility, fall risk) and a community walking assessment that illustrates how environment influences aging. Students learn to apply health equity promotion and social justice principles to older adult health (Health Equity Promotion model). Students learn about community programs, health policy, and their impact on the health of older adults. The course will foster an informed and reasoned openness to, and understanding of, aging differences based on lifestyle, economic, and biological factors. In conclusion, a course goal is to educate students who become citizens committed to creating a just and equitable society.