This course will examine the historical development, current application, and future trends of public policy as they relate to the well-being of aging individuals. Policy processes at the state and national levels will be holistically explored and analyzed so that strengths and weaknesses of current age-related policies and proposals for change can be critically evaluated.
This course offers a survey of the research in key areas related to aging and communication. It introduces students to the central theories of communication and aging as well as approaches to studying intergenerational communication. Communication’s influence on societal attitudes about age groups and intergenerational communication, and the impact of communication on issues of (in)dependence, health and wellbeing, healthcare issues, close personal relationships, decision-making, and other communicative contexts related to aging will be examined.
Review of current social gerontological theories and research; consideration of structural aspects of the social order as related to the aging process.
This course is designed to examine common health changes, issues and concerns as they pertain to the aging individual.
Research techniques in writing, interpreting, and evaluating research.
This course will examine, from an education/learning perspective, adult education with a focus on the third age student (55+). Principles of adult learning and educational practices will be discussed along with organizations/individuals providing third age learners education activities.
This course includes information on theories of physical aging, functional changes in humans with aging, and effects of both short term and chronic physical activity upon aging systems. Indications and contraindications of activity for older persons are discussed.
An in-depth study of age-related changes, in the elderly, in such psychological processes as learning, memory, sensation, perception, intelligence, adjustment, and personality.
To offer opportunity and challenge for a student to pursue needed study in the area in which appropriate courses are not being currently offered.
OR
An individualized planned work experience in an agency or institution appropriate to the student's area of specialization.
OR
Individual direction of research thesis writing.
Elective Courses
Select 6 credit hours
*Other courses as approved by academic advisor. Some elective courses require prerequisites or permission of the instructor.
Eastern Illinois University
1044 Klehm Hall
Charleston, IL 61920
217-581-6076
Fax: 217-581-6090
kaorourke@eiu.edu