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This course introduces students to the field of Gerontology. Taking a multidisciplinary approach, the course examines the study of aging from a social, psychological, and physical perspective. Topics to be studied include ageism, population aging, physical and psychological aspects of aging and gerontological theory.

This course introduces students to the field of Gerontology. Taking a multidisciplinary approach, the course examines the study of aging from a social, psychological, and physical perspective. Topics to be studied include ageism, population aging, physical and psychological aspects of aging and gerontological theory.

This course explores cultural and social-structural determinants ofaging through sociological theory. Students critically examine the social construction of "old age" as a social status through perceptions, descriptions, discussions and interactions with others, and how these relations are 'negotiated' by the older people themselves. Other topics include ageism and how various social institutions influence the experience of aging. Prerequisite: GERO 1013 OR GERO 1023, OR permission from the instructor.

This course explores popular views of the elderly using motion pictures, specifically the impact of stereotypes on older people's expectations for later life. Students should be able to look at films more critically and identify images communicated through the media.

This course examines evidence-based theoretical models and assessments used when counselling older adults. Emphasis is placed on the counselling techniques and interventions used to assist older adults in meeting unique challenges experienced in the later part of life. This course is relevant for those preparing for a career in social work or counselling. Prerequisites: GERO 1013 AND 1023 OR permission of the instructor. GERO 2673 recommended.

This course explores ways to promote health and well-being for people as they age. This includes examining current research and public policy as it relates to supporting older adults to take control of and improve their overall health. In addition, evidence-based health promotion programs will be evaluated. Pre-Requisites: GERO 1013 or 1023; 3023 recommended.

This seminar course consists of an in-depth analysis of a specific problem or issue in the field of aging. Students have their chosen topic area approved and supervised by the course instructor. The purpose of this course is to integrate a student's theoretical and practical understanding of a specific area by way of a combination of a major paper, presentations, and/or other research. Prerequisites: GERO 1013 + 1023.

This course examines the experiences of growing older in Canada. This includes a review of Canada's healthcare, pension systems and other social structures and policies which directly impact older adults in Canadian society.

An exploration of the way aging is portrayed and constructed in literary texts. (Post-1800.)

This course adopts a biopsychosocial perspective to studying aging. Topics include theoretical models of development, research methods used to study adult development, health and prevention, basic cognitive function and the aging process, higher order cognitive functions, personality, mental health issues and treatment. These biopsychological functions are examined for how they impact older adults as they navigate their social worlds. Prerequisites: GERO 1013 OR GERO 1023 OR PSYC 1023.

Various aspects of aging and health are addressed. Topics include: theoretical approaches to healthy aging (e.g., biomedical, social determinants, salutogentic, adaptive); normal vs. pathological, physical changes that accompany the aging process; various chronic conditions that affect quality of life in later life; medication use and polypharmacy; nutritional status among older adults; and the impact of an aging population on the provision of acute and long-term care for older adults. Prerequisite GERO 1013 and 1023

This course will introduce students to qualitative research methods used in social science, with an emphasis on gerontology. It will address theoretical foundations of qualitative analysis, ethical considerations involving older adults, and provide hands-on experience in developing a research question, and collecting and analyzing data using basic qualitative techniques in gerontology. It will also prepare students in writing a qualitative research proposal.Prerequisite: GERO 1013 OR GERO 1023, OR permission from the instructor.

There is growing interest in contemplative traditions in contemporary Canadian society that enhance the quality of life for older adults. This is largely motivated by the growing popularity of Eastern wisdom traditions such as mindfulness, yoga, and tai-chi, though contemplation is not limited to Eastern perspectives. This course examines a range of benefits of contemplative modalities for adults if all ages, exploring how these practices enable new relationships to aging, health, and happiness. Students learn basic yoga, mindfulness, and tai chi practices at an introductory level. Non-Eastern contemplative practices may also be explored

This course explores the range of factors affecting mental health in the elderly, from age-related organic brain disease, depression, and the other functional psychiatric disorders, to failure of adjustment induced by psychological, social, and environmental factors. Issues covered include the recognition of mental-health problems, their prevalence and dynamics; the cost to individual older people, their families, the health and community-care systems, and society; and the adequacy of current provisions and interventions. Prerequisites: GERO 1013, GERO 1023 and GERO 2673.

This course is intended for students in the final semester of the program. It consists of a multidisciplinary lecture-seminar format. Selected topics in aging research and intervention are discussed, including those that highlight the positive potential of the aging experience, e.g., the potential for creativity, wisdom, and continued personal growth. The purpose of this course is to ensure that students have a comprehensive background in the field of aging. Prerequisites: GERO 1013, GERO 1023 and an additional 18 credit hours of courses.