GER121 Introduction to Gerontology (3 Credits)
Contact Hours: 3 Lecture Hours: 3
Presents a basic understanding of the historical, cultural, biological, physiological, psychological, and social contexts of aging. Addresses the changes that occur within the aging individual, how these changes influence interactions with social and physical environments, and how the older person, in turn, is affected by these interactions. Includes a discussion of age-related changes in anatomy and physiology, socialization, personality, intelligence, sensation, social support, economics and retirement, death and dying, and crime and fraud.
GER122 Psychological Aspect of Aging (3 Credits)
Contact Hours: 3 Lecture Hours: 3
Examines the process of aging from individual and societal perspectives. Uses a psychosocial approach to discuss the images of growing old, created by individual and institutional structures of society, as well as the myriad of patterns of inequality of gender, race, and economics that are compounded in old age. Topics include a discussion of speed of behavior, mental functioning, mental disorders, socialization, social support, economics and retirement, leisure activities, living arrangements, and death and dying.