PY5017 - Psychosocial Elements of Ageing

Available to students eligible to enrol in MPsych, DPsych or any postgraduate diploma or certificate.

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 Outcomes

• encourage understanding of relevant cultural variations and influences including retirement;
• facilitate a professional understanding of grief and bereavement;
• place in context common health problems of older persons, including cardiovascular and sleep disorders and pain;
• promote an informed appreciation of common neurological disorders in older people including dementia;
• promote an understanding of mood disorders in older people, including their assessment and treatment;
• promote an understanding of the role of anxiety disorders in older people, including their assessment and treatment;
• 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.

Subject Assessment

• Participation > Class participation - (%) - Individual
• Written > Critical appraisal/review - (20%) - Individual
• Written > Journal article - (30%) - Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Portfolio - (50%) - Individual.

Special Assessment Requirements

Passing requirements: complete and submit all assessment items; participate in all scheduled classes; achieve a cumulative score of at least 50% after the application of any penalties such as late penalties.

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.