AGES3001 Contemporary Issues in Ageing Societies

2020

4.5

3 x 1-hour tutorials per semester
1 x 10-hour independent study weekly
5 x 6-hour on-line exercises per semester

Assignment(s), Tutorial participation, Online learning activities

This topic examines a range of contemporary issues relevant to ageing societies with a view to stimulating students’ critical analysis of evidence underpinning, and debates in, policy and practice. It begins by considering the major tenets of a gerontological imagination. Students will then explore areas such as technology and ageing, spirituality and ageing, housing for older people as well as political issues emerging as ‘hot topics’ in one or more of the subfields of gerontology (financial, social, environmental, educational, etc). Students will further develop and apply their ‘gerontological gaze’ to significant contemporary issues.

The topic aims to further develop student’s critical thinking by applying a gerontological perspective on key current issues in society that can impact on healthy ageing and the well-being of older people. In doing so, students will enhance their capacity to take the perspective of older people to support innovative, creative responses to support healthy ageing.

On completion of this topic, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Identify ways in which key contemporary issues impact on achieving and maintaining healthy ageing

2. Compare and contrast contemporary issues in developed and developing countries

3. Critically evaluate the evidence-base of key contemporary issues in relation to healthy ageing by implementing a gerontological imagination

4. Assess the preparedness of post-war generations in relation to contemporary issues in ageing societies

5. Identify emerging issues in ageing societies.