PY5017:03
Basic Geropsychology
| Townsville | HECS Band 1 |
39 hours seminars. Semester 1. Limited Attendance.
Available to students eligible to enrol in MPsych, DPsych or any postgraduate diploma or certificate.
Staff: Assoc. Professor E Helmes.
This subject provides an introductory perspective on the position of the older adults in modern society and information on the more common physical, psychological and neurological disorders in older adults. Students will become familiar with the major issues that affect older people such as retirement, bereavement and changes in interpersonal and intergenerational relationships. Topics will include the major theories of ageing, typical and successful ageing, the assessment and treatment of common anxiety and mood disorders, the identification of common health problems including neurological conditions associated with ageing and the role of psychological approaches in managing these conditions.
Learning Objectives:
- provide a sound understanding of theories of ageing;
- provide an appreciation of the place of the older person in society, including the basic demography of ageing; cohorts and generations; ageism and stereotypes;
- encourage understanding of relevant cultural variations and influences including retirement;
- promote an understanding of the role of anxiety disorders in older people, including their assessment and treatment;
- promote an understanding of mood disorders in older people, including their assessment and treatment;
- facilitate a professional understanding of grief and bereavement;
- promote an informed appreciation of common neurological disorders in older people including dementia;
- place in context common health problems of older persons, including cardiovascular and sleep disorders and pain.
Assessment by seminar presentation, written assignment and/or assessment of practical work.