SOC 120 - Intro. Aging Studies, Social Gerontology

Number of Credits: 3
Introduction to Aging Studies (Social Gerontology) examines the social processes encountered in adulthood and old age, using socio-cultural perspective. This course will explore current concepts and controversies in broad areas of aging, such as health care, retirement, socio-economic trends, as well as the impact of ageism and societal attitudes regarding the elderly (Fall & Spring Only) Three hours lecture each week. Three Credits. Three billable hours.

Pre-requisite(s): eligibility for ENGL 101 (successful completion of ENGL 101 recommended).
Course Objectives: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Explain the interaction between biological, psychological and socio-cultural aspects of aging and the social theories used to understand the aging process in modern society.
Identify the historical, cultural and demographic changes associated with the aging process, the social construction of aging and the meaning of late life, as they relate to recent trends such as the extension of late-life and retirement.
Participate in class discussions analyzing how gender, race ethnicity and social class shape the experience of people in different societies as they age, maintaining a cooperative and respectful approach during these discussions.
Analyze and present thoughtful policy options for current social issues impacting older adults, such as health care and social security reform, local service delivery of senior services, and late-life individual planning and decision-making.
Research a local service for the older population in your community write an analysis of the value of this service to the community design a presentation of this information and, present the information and analysis to the class.