James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2003

NS5601:03

Processes of Normal Ageing

External HECS Band 1

Semester 1.

This subject provides a knowledge base which the gerontological nurse can access to plan and manage the care of the aged. Students will extend their knowledge of the physiological changes which occur during ageing. They will explore the psychosocial changes which occur at this stage of development. This makes it possible for the students to differentiate between the changes related to the ageing process and those related to lifestyle and pathology when assessing health status and planning care for the aged in different clinical settings.

Learning Objectives:

  1. demonstrate an understanding of the current biological theories of ageing;
  2. describe the ageing process at cell, tissue and organ levels in the body;
  3. outline the changes which occur physiologically related to each body system during ageing;
  4. demonstrate an understanding of the psychosocial changes which occur during ageing;
  5. identify the problems which may arise as a result of the psychosocial changes;
  6. outline the developmental theories of ages;
  7. relate knowledge of the changes which occur as part of the normal ageing process to the nursing care of the aged in different health care settings.

Assessment by on-course assessment (100%).