Department of Social & Policy Sciences, Unit Catalogue 2007/08 |
SP50167 End of life issues in old age |
| Credits: 6 |
| Level: Masters |
| Semester: 1 |
| Assessment: ES100 |
| Requisites: |
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Aims:
* To provide a comprehensive understanding the nature of the demographic revolution and its consequences for human institutions, including death dying and memorialising; * To provide a conceptual understanding of the ways in which health and care systems address the dying experiences of people of different ages; * To understand the diversity and changing character of spirituality and religious belief among older people in different societies; * To develop a critical evaluation of the ethical issues which are presented by long life, infirmity and loss of independence; * To be conversant with the sociological and economic perspectives and critiques of very late life - including inheritance, property and generational tensions, as well as the costs of dying. Learning Outcomes: Students will be able to : * Explain and analyse the impact of major demographic change on the sociology and practical aspects of death and dying; * Describe and critically evaluate the range of services available to older people approaching death * Have a systematic understanding of the changing character of old age and its consequences for views about death; * Critically assess the personal, social and ethical issues which are presented by the changing demography of death. Skills: * Develop skills to critically reflect on the suitability of diverse approaches for investigating and analysing problems. * Appreciate and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of various models of care. * Develop ability to apply theory to policy areas. * Identify and access relevant information sources. * Communicate complex issues and perspectives effectively. * Develop skills of time management, workload prioritisation and related planning skills. * Develop good writing and presentation skills. Content: 1. Stretching the lifespan - death in the province of old age 2. Causes of death in later life - their correlates and consequences 3. Family care and care services for older people in the 4th age 4. Dementia and it's impact on dying and death 5. Dying in a care home 6. Palliative and nursing care for the dying 7. Faith and spirituality in later life 8. Ethical dilemmas. Assisted dying; the 'good innings' and other issues 9. What is a good death in old age? 10. The economics of death and dying in old age. |