Aging and the Reflective Practitioner – Part I

Course Description

Part I will illuminate why older age is often associated with disease and decline (Western view) and why our society continues to define it that way! To be progressive in the field of aging, it is important to be knowledgeable of the concepts and theories in aging to understand how and why our society views aging the way it does. This platform will prepare the practitioner to think critically about his/her own views on aging and consider ways in which he/she has either been co-opted by western societal views or has transcended them. There are numerous opportunities and/or challenges in working with older adults, but having a base of understanding is essential.

Learning Objectives:

• To provide knowledge regarding various definitions and demographics associated with medical care for older adults
• To illustrate some variables in aging – physical, social and emotional – that are important for practitioners to consider when working with older patients