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Course Descriptions—Gerontology (GERO)

GERO 100 Introduction to Gerontology (3)

(Fulfills the general education requirement in behavioral and social sciences.) An overview of the processes of aging and the way aging is defined chronologically, functionally, biologically, sociologically, and psychologically. The physical, psychological, cultural, and social aspects of aging are examined. Topics include the demography of aging and its implications for society, social structure and processes (such as patterns of family and social roles), work and retirement, health care and housing, and the implications of an aging society for policy. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: GERO 100 or GERO 210.

GERO 220 Psychological Aspects of Aging (3)

(Fulfills the general education requirement in behavioral and social sciences.) Prerequisite: GERO 100. A review of normal and pathological changes associated with the process of aging. Topics include sensory, perceptual, and psychomotor processes; mental ability, drives, motives, and emotions; intelligence, memory, and cognitive functions; depression; neurological changes; Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias; stress; life review processes; personality and adjustment; suicide; bereavement; and treatment modes. Emphasis is on the normal aging process, pathological changes in the elderly (according to current research), and understanding the difference between the two.

GERO 301 Service/Program Management (3)

An exploration of the managerial aspects of providing health and human services in the field of gerontology through an integrated delivery system. Focus is on the concepts, strategies, and best practices for the management of health and human services. Topics include planning, strategic management, marketing, financing, legal issues, and capacity building.

GERO 302 Health and Aging (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. An exploration of the physiological processes of aging that covers normal aging and chronic illness. Topics include biological processes and theories of aging, bodily changes normally associated with aging, long-term and health care systems, and related medical terminology. Review also covers substance abuse, environmental factors affecting aging, and ways of promoting health, preventing disease, and assessing health risks.

GERO 306 Programs, Services, and Policies (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. An overview of programs and policies designed to enable older adults to obtain necessary services, enhance their health, improve or maintain their economic well-being, and provide support to families of the aging. Trends in aging programs, services, and policies are discussed. Topics include work, retirement, and income maintenance (employment concerns, pensions, Social Security, and Supplementary Security Income); delivery and regulation of health care (longterm care, home care, Medicare, and Medicaid); and social or community services (adult day care, in-home services, senior centers, nutrition and food programs, information and referrals, advocacy, elder abuse protection, and transportation) that promote well-being in older adults. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: GERO 304 or GERO 306.

GERO 307 Aging, Religion, and Spirituality (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. An examination of aging, religion, and spirituality from the perspectives of the humanities and social science. Focus is on concepts of spiritual or religious development and aging within the major religious traditions (Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, Christianity, and Hinduism). A critical analysis of theoretical and empirical research and clinical perspectives of the role of religion and spirituality in the lives of older adults from different religious traditions are presented. Discussion covers definitions and concepts of religiosity and spirituality in the social science literature. The current and future impact of older adults on religious institutions, the responsibilities of religious institutions to their aging members, and the role of religion and spirituality in the lives of the aging are examined.

GERO 311 Women and Aging (3)

Recommended: GERO 100. An exploration of issues important to women in midlife and later adulthood. Topics include changes in identity, marriage and family, work, health, social relationships, and economic well-being. The impact of social class and ethnicity or culture on women’s well-being in midlife and later adulthood is examined. Discussion also covers the impact of policy and services on women’s development and quality of life, as well as life planning for midlife and aging women. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: GERO 311 or GERO 497E.

GERO 327 Ethnicity and Aging (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. An examination of the increasing heterogeneity of the aging population in the United States. Topics include theory and research related to ethnicity and aging, the resources and needs of older adults in different ethnic groups (Hispanic, African American, Asian, and Native American), the impact of ethnicity and culture on the aging family, social support and caregiving, health, and social relationships. Discussion also covers how social, health care, and government agencies can effectively meet the needs of older adults in ethnic communities.

GERO 331 Sociology of Aging (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. An examination of the social forces that impinge on the aging process from a number of theoretical perspectives found in sociology and social gerontology. Topics include the social ramifications of an aging population, sociological and social gerontological explanations of the aging process, interactions between the aging process and the larger social structure, cross-cultural similarities and differences in the aging experience, and current social policies toward aging and their implications for the future.

GERO 336 The Aging Family (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. An examination of issues faced by aging families. Topics include the structure of family networks, solidarity and conflict between generations, types and quality of support given to and by the older person, and social roles (including role strain, conflict, and reward). Emphasis is on understanding family caregiving—the experience of caregiving; the caregiver-recipient relationship; and the social, psychological, and economic costs of caregiving. The phenomena of grandparents parenting grandchildren is covered. The changing nature of family relationships is analyzed from the perspective of gender, race or ethnicity, social class, age, and historical context. Discussion also covers implications for social programs and policies to support aging families. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: GERO 336 or GERO 496L.

GERO 338 Health Promotion in Older Adults (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. An exploration of health promotion issues in an older adult population. The literature on health promotion and health risk behaviors in older adults is analyzed critically. Focus is on the modification of risk behaviors related to the development of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other illnesses common to older adults through ecological and educational models of health promotion. The impact of social, cultural, political, and economic factors on health behavior and health promotion is also examined.

GERO 341 The Long-Term Care Continuum (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. A survey of gerontological intervention programs and the care needs of the elderly and their families. The changing needs of aging individuals who have chronic physical and/or mental health impairments are examined. A framework for the continuum of care from community- to institution-based is provided. Focus is on understanding a multidisciplinary approach to community-, home-, and institutionbased care. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: FMCD 499E, GERO 341, or GERO 496K.

GERO 342 Long-Term Care Administration (3)

(Continuation of GERO 341.) Prerequisite: GERO 100. An overview of the administrative and operational issues of longterm care facilities. The responsibilities of a long-term care administrator and relationships with personnel and administrative structure are examined. Topics include policy, procedures, and insurance or financing. Discussion also covers the ethical and legal concerns of long-term care.

GERO 350 The Older Learner (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. A critical examination of theory and research on education and learning in later life. Philosophical perspectives on education in later life are explored. Topics include educational opportunities and needs in later life; psychological, educational, and social aspects that influence learning in older adults; the impact of ethnicity, gender, age, and socioeconomic status on education and the teaching/learning process; and the development of educational programs, curricula, and teaching/learning strategies used with older adults. The evaluation of educational programs designed for older learners is also covered.

GERO 351 Management of Senior Housing Environment (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. A framework for training retirementhousing professionals. Topics include regulatory standards and processes for Housing and Urban Development senior housing structures, environmental design, behavioral and environmental interaction, dietary services, continuity of care, differentiation of management needs in various formats of senior housing, personnel, programming, and medical and personal care services.

GERO 353 Financial Management of Retirement Housing (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. An examination of the operational side of senior housing management. Topics include the housing administrator’s role as financial manager; application of accounting principles to senior housing needs; working capital, ratio analysis, and vertical analysis; budgeting in senior housing; purchasing; financing new facilities; payroll; and maintenance issues in senior housing.

GERO 355 Nutritional Concerns of Aging (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. A survey of the nutritional concerns of the elderly, including causes, pathophysiology, prevention, and control. Topics include the role of nutrients in the etiology of various illnesses associated with aging (such as anemia, osteoporosis, gastrointestinal tract disorders, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, maturity-onset diabetes, crippling arthritis, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, cataracts, tooth loss, and vision loss). Discussion also covers the effects of aging on appetite, nutrition and exercise, vegetarianism, and food choices. Nutritional assessment, the influence of different cultures on nutrition, and community resources are examined. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: GERO 355 or GERO 495K.

GERO 380 End of Life: Issues and Perspectives (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. An exploration of death, dying, and bereavement from social, cultural, psychological, biomedical, economic, and historical perspectives. Topics include definitions of death, the meaning of death, psychological needs of the dying person and significant others, care of the dying, suicide, euthanasia, end-of-life decision making, the economics of life-sustaining care, and bereavement and grieving.

GERO 390 Economics of Aging (3)

Prerequisites: GERO 100 and either ECON 201 or ECON 203. A study of the fundamental sources of economic security that older adults receive, the many problems they face in retirement, and the impact of an aging population on the nation’s economy. Sources of economic security received by older adults are analyzed according to race or ethnicity, gender, and social class background. Topics include the history, development, and fundamental structure of the Social Security and pension systems; Medicare, Medicaid, private health coverage, and the myriad public assistance programs for which elderly persons are eligible; and the nation’s evolving private and public policies on retirement. Discussion also covers baby boomer retirement, the international economics of aging, the financial situation of older women, reverse annuity mortgages, and “productive aging” (work and volunteering after retirement).

GERO 391 Legal Issues in Aging (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. An overview of critical legal issues affecting the elderly. Focus is on potential problems that may require the assistance of attorneys and health care professionals. Topics include the responsibilities of legal representatives, personal autonomy, and voluntary and involuntary limitations on autonomy, guardianship and other alternatives, and end-of-life decision making. Regulations and laws designed to protect the elderly against abuse and fraud are also covered.

GERO 410 Cross-Cultural Perspectives of Aging (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. An examination of how different cultures interpret aging and the life cycle. Topics include crosscultural theory and research on aging; research methods; global demographics of aging; cross-cultural perspectives of norms and values regarding work, family, and community roles for older adults; the social and economic status of older adults; intergenerational relationships; caregiving; end-of-life issues; social services; and social policy. Health care for older adults is also covered from a cross-cultural perspective.

GERO 443 Making Gerontology Relevant to Other Disciplines (3)

(Designed to help students in other disciplines integrate gerontology with their major area of academic study.) Prerequisites: GERO 100, 220 (or PSYC 357), 302 (or BIOL 307), and 331. An exploration of fundamental gerontological concepts (adaptation, health, functional ability, family/intergenerational relations, interdependency, activity, and economic security) from a multidisciplinary perspective. Implications for practice are examined from the perspective of the student’s academic major. Avenues for fostering interaction among different disciplines, as they pertain to gerontology, are explored. Discussion also covers how new linkages can be forged between scientists and practitioners in gerontology and professionals within individual major areas of study.

GERO 460 Neurocognitive Functioning in the Aging (3)

Prerequisite: GERO 100. An exploration of the relationship between the functioning of the brain and cognitive and functional abilities. Normative age-related and pathological changes in the brain and central nervous system are examined along with the impact of these changes on cognitive and functional abilities in older adults. Discussion covers Alzheimer’s and other dementias and their assessment and treatment.

GERO 486A Internship in Gerontology Through Co-op (3)

Prerequisite: Formal admission to the Co-op program (program requirements are listed on p. 247). An opportunity to combine academic theory with new, career-related experience in gerontology. At least 12 hours per week must be devoted to new tasks for a minimum of 180 hours during the Co-op session; four new tasks must be delineated in the Learning Proposal; and the course requirements must be completed. May be repeated upon approval of a new Learning Proposal that demonstrates new tasks and objectives related to gerontology and that continues to advance application of academic theory in the workplace. Students may earn up to 15 credits in all internship coursework through Co-op toward a first bachelor’s degree and up to 9 credits toward a second bachelor’s degree. Co-op credits may not be used for general education requirements and, unless otherwise specified, no more than 6 Co-op credits may be used in the academic major and minor (combined).

GERO 486B Internship in Gerontology Through Co-op (6)

Prerequisite: Formal admission to the Co-op program (program requirements are listed on p. 247). An opportunity to combine academic theory with new, career-related experience in gerontology. At least 20 hours per week must be devoted to new tasks for a total of 300 hours during the Co-op session; five to eight new tasks must be delineated in the Learning Proposal; and the course requirements must be completed. May be repeated upon approval of a new Learning Proposal that demonstrates new tasks and objectives related to gerontology and that continues to advance application of academic theory in the workplace. Students may earn up to 15 credits in all internship coursework through Co-op toward a first bachelor’s degree and up to 9 credits toward a second bachelor’s degree. Co-op credits may not be used for general education requirements and, unless otherwise specified, no more than 6 Co-op credits may be used in the academic major and minor (combined).

GERO 495 Special Topics in Development and Health (1–3)

Specialized study in gerontology and related topics focusing on issues in development and health. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 credits when topics differ.

GERO 495C Alzheimer’s Disease: Current Issues, Perspectives, and Research (1)

A theoretical and practical approach to the study of Alzheimer’s disease, covering its etiology and establishing its place among the chronic dementias. Topics include medical ethics, legal issues, caregiving, anticipatory grieving, support groups for both patients and caregivers, and community networks. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: GERO 495C or HLTH 498U.

GERO 495D Adaptation to Sensory Changes and Aging (1)

A review of age differences in sensory processes. Topics include physical changes and the social and psychological implications of these sensory impairments, prosthetic devices and other human factors concepts, and strategies to improve communication with family and friends.

GERO 495H Illness and Aging (1)

A broad overview of topics relating to illness and wellness in elderly people. Topics include avoidable illness, principles of drug therapy, unique aspects of illness presentation, aging organ systems, biology of aging, epidemiology, and demographics.

GERO 495K Geriatric Nutrition (1)

An overview of the physiological, social, and psychological changes that affect nutritional status and intake in aging. Discussion also includes identification of nutritional needs, intervention, and community resources for older adults. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: GERO 355 or GERO 495K.

GERO 496 Special Topics in Social and Family Relations (1–3)

Specialized study in gerontology and related topics focusing on social and family relations. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 credits when topics differ.

GERO 496B Issues Affecting Older Workers and Their Employers (1)

An overview of issues affecting older workers and their employers. Topics include descriptive information about older workers and the types of work they perform, policy issues governing older workers and their employers, attitudes about older workers among employers and workers, methods to combat age discrimination, and future issues for older workers in the United States and Europe.

GERO 496C Managing Loss and Grief: Approaches for the Human Services Provider (1)

A discussion of grief and loss based on concepts that have emerged from health care and counseling practices. Focus is on therapeutic interventions that promote personal growth in clients while helping them satisfactorily work through grief.

GERO 496G Elder Abuse and Criminal Victimization (1)

A survey of abusive treatment of older people in the context of violence in families. The typical characteristics of the abusers and the abused, as well as the causes and types of crimes of abuse, are examined. Topics include methodological shortcomings in the conduct of research on cases of abuse, alternative strategies of intervention, and the types of stress that caregivers experience. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: GERO 496G or HLTH 498L.

GERO 496I Understanding and Coping with Life Transitions (1)

A study of the transitions of adulthood and aging, such as divorce, career changes, retirement, grandparenthood, illness, and the death of a spouse or loved one. The Transition Coping Model is used to look at factors that make a difference in dealing with change.

GERO 496K Long-Term Care: Options and Alternatives (1)

An overview of resources available for people no longer able to live independently. The continuum from home care to independent living is examined to determine which type of living situation best suits the individual’s medical, personal care, and financial needs. A field trip to a nearby long-term care facility is included. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: FMCD 499E, GERO 341, or GERO 496K.

GERO 496P Elder Rights: Social Security and Medicare (1)

An overview of the history and evolution of Social Security and Medicare. Topics include an exploration of basic benefits, current conflicts, and implications for the future.

GERO 496R Geriatric Case Management (1)

A review of the concept of geriatric case management. Topics include the needs of older adults and appropriate interventions.

GERO 497 Special Topics in Administration and Planning (1–3)

Specialized study in gerontology and related topics focusing on administration and planning. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 credits when topics differ.

GERO 497D Retirement Planning: Managing Your Estate (1)

(For nonlawyers.) An examination of the principles and strategies used to settle an estate. Topics include administration of wills and estates, ownership and transfer of property, will substitutes, trusts and powers of appointment, strategies for giving charitable gifts, and gift and estate taxes. Students may receive credit for only one of the following courses: FMCD 499D or GERO 497D.

GERO 497K Strategic Planning for Retirement (1)

A discussion of the techniques for achieving financial independence at retirement and the economic, governmental, and business factors that work against reaching this goal. Topics covered include Social Security and Medicare; pensions and tax-deferred savings plans, including 401(k)s and IRAs; and how much to save for retirement throughout the lifespan.

GERO 497M Managed Health Care Services in Gerontology (1)

A comparative analysis of the delivery of managed health services to retirees and the elderly in the United States. Focus is on the financing of comprehensive benefits and services while considering demographics, employer-sponsored approaches, governmentsponsored approaches, indemnity approaches, and self-sponsored approaches. Key concepts examined include employer/retiree cost-sharing coverage, tax-deferred funding options, purchasing cooperatives, health alliances, fiscal management, and capitation.

GERO 497N Vocational Planning in Gerontology (1)

A review of the various vocational pathways in gerontology. Topics include suggested plans of study, professional affiliations, and market demands.