PSYC08018 2016 the psychology of ageing
This module examines the normal processes of ageing. It explores mental health difficulties in older adults, issues of loss and bereavement. It focuses on attachment in later life, sexuality, elder abuse, dementia, quality of life variables, models of care, etc
It is examined by a presentation worth 100%. This is done either individually or in a small group of the student's own choosing. The focus of the presentation is older adult. Students may wish to present a particular topic in-depth or present an intervention of benefit to older adults.
This module maps to the CORU Standards of Proficiency below:
Domain 1: Professional Autonomy and Accountability
Domain 2: Communication, Collaborative Practice and Teamworking
Domain 3: Safety and Quality
Domain 4: Professional Development
Domain 5: Professional Knowledge and Skills
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module the learner will/should be able to;
Understand the normal processes of ageing (Domain 5.1, 5.7,5.9).
Develop a comprehensive knowledge of mental health difficulties encountered by older adults (causes, symptoms, treatment and treatment efficacy) (Domain 1.5, 1.6, 1.8, 2.9, 2.17, 3.1, 3.6).
Critically debate issues of ageism, elder abuse, relationships, sexuality and attachment, models of elder care etc (Domain 1.3,1.5,1.6, 2.4, 2.9, 2.12, 4.4, 5.1)
Demonstrate an understanding of the challenges of dementia, cognitive impairment, alzheimers to the older person and the carer. (Domain .1.5, 1.8, 2.2, 2.3, 2.12, 2.17, 3.1, 5.1).
Make an in-depth presentation to tutorial group on a topic related to older adults and/or produce an intervention for use with this age group (Domain 1.1, 1.3, 1.5, 1.6, 1.8, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.9, 2.12, 2.17, 3.1, 3.6, 4.4, 5.1, 5.7)
Teaching and Learning Strategies
Teaching is through one hour weekly of a lecture on a specific topic as outlined above
Students will also be given a two-hour tutorial weekly.
Students are expected to read journal articles, book chapters relevant to the weekly lecture topic.
These readings will be set by lecturer and also chosen by students.
Tutorials will be interactive with discussion from readings and also role play and peer learning opportunities
Students will also give a presentation to their tutorial group
Learning outcomes 1,2,3, 4 and 5 are assessed in this manner
Module Assessment Strategies
This module is assessed through a presentation. The presentation is either individually or in groups (students' choice) on a topic of the student's choosing.
A problem-solving approach is taken where the students identify an aspect of gerontology they wish to explore and present their research/intervention to their tutorial group
Learning outcomes 1,2,3, 4 and 5 are assessed in this way
This modules assessment allows for assessment of CORU Standards of Proficiency as follows:
100% Presentation: Domain 1.1, 1.3, 1.5 1.6 1.8, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.9, 2.12, 2.17, 3.1, 3.6, 4.4, 5.1, 5.7 & 5.9.
Repeat Assessments
Repeat presentation if required last week of the semester
Indicative Syllabus
An introduction to the ageing process - biological, social, emotional, cognitive, etc
Examination of assumptions about older adult development and the impact of such assumptions on the wellbeing of older adults
Recognition and treatment/care of mental health challenges faced by older adults, depression, anxiety, Alzheimer
Stress experiences and resilience among older adults, coping with loss and bereavement (death, health, place of residence)
An examination of elder abuse, discrimination, prejudices and how to combat the same
An examination of family care-giving and the impact of care-giving on carers
Models of care for older adults and issues of quality of life
An examination of the relationships between care, loss of autonomy and depression and other mental health issues
An examination of ethical issues (end of life care and decisions) and spiritual needs of older persons
An examination of HIQA standards in relation to elder care, their relevance and implementation
Coursework & Assessment Breakdown
Coursework Assessment
Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | continuous | Continuous Assessment | Project | 100 % | Week 8 | 1,2,3,4,5 |
Full Time Mode Workload
Type | Location | Description | Hours | Frequency | Avg Workload |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lecture | Tiered Classroom | lecture | 2 | Weekly | 2.00 |
Tutorial | Flat Classroom | tutorial | 1 | Weekly | 1.00 |
Required & Recommended Book List
2016 Handbook of Geontology ResearchMethods Routledge
2016 Decision Making near the end if life Routledge
2016 When Professionsal Weep Routledge
2016 Multicultutal Counselling and Psychotherapy: A lifespan approach Routledge
2011 Mental Disorders in Older Adults Routledge
2010 Mental Health in Later Life Routledge
2008 Handbook of Psychosocial interventions with Older adults Routledge
2014 Alzheimer's Disease :-:- other Dementias Routledge
2015 The Preservation of Memory Psychology Press
2015 The Psychology of Control and Ageing Psychology Press
2015 Geriatric Depression Guilford Press
2014 The Agin g Mind Routledge
Module Resources
Trinity College TILDA Study
Alzheimer's Society of Ireland
Age Action Ireland
Centre for Ageing Research and Development in Ireland (CARDI)
World Health Organisation
College databases in particular "Web of Science" and "Science Direct"
Journals such as the Journal of Aging Studies, Journal of Affective Disorders etc
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