Gerontology
Course Overview
By 2025, one-third of the world’s population will be over the age of 65. How much do you know about the physical and psychological changes associated with aging? Should one be afraid of getting older or look forward to it? How can wellness and healthcare professionals contribute to their older clients wellbeing? This course offers comprehensive answers to these questions and more.
The program explores the biology of aging and existing theories about the aging process. It examines age-related physical changes as well as the broader psychological and social issues human face as they go through their lifespan. Emphasis is placed on the holistic approach to the client’s health, assisting older patients in pain reduction, and dysfunctions associated with particular health conditions that afflict this population.
Among the central themes covered in the course curriculum are theoretical and practical issues associated with the lifestyle choice and self-determination of older adults. Particular focus is placed on the following topics: nutrition and aging, education and learning in later life, grieving and aging and work and aging.
Evaluation
CEUs: 6 ( 1 CEU credit = 10 study hours)
Course completion: 60 hours
Self-assessment quizzes and a Final exam.
The passing grade is 75%.
Program Curriculum
Unit 1
- Demographics of the older population and how they affect various aspects of our society
- Knowledge of the current scientific theories on adult development and aging
- Difference between normal changes in functioning due to aging and pathological (abnormal) changes leading to disease
Unit 2
- Difference between normal aging and age-associated pathology
- Chronic degenerative musculoskeletal conditions in the elderly
- Changes in nutritional needs that occur with aging
- Risk factors of malnutrition in this population
- Changes occurring in aging bones and how to decelerate this process
Unit 3
- Mental health challenges unique to the older population
- Osteopathic approach to treating elderly patients
- Understanding the specific emotional and physical needs of elderly clients
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