Psychology of Ageing - Growth, Decline and Coping

A life course perspective on ageing. Age changes in personaity, emotions, and in coping and coping strategies. Gender differences in ageing. Changes in learning, memory and intelligence. Forgetfulnes and wisdom. Dementia. Depression and anxiety in old age. Factors influencing quality of life in different phases of life. How future time perspective and attitudes toward death and dying may influence the quality of life.

Knowledge The student has broad knowledge and comprehension of

• the significance of health and other factors for quality of life in older years
• cognitive age changes; diverging from wisdom to dementia
• strategies for coping with ageing
• the prevalence of psychic problems among older citizens

Skills The student can

• reflect upon his/her own views on ageing and the elderly, and how these views may influence the behaviour and experience of older persons
• use professional knowledge and relevant research to practical and theoretical questions concerning older persons' psychic functions

General competence The student can

• exchange informed views on the psychology of ageing with professionals, the general public and with older persons themselves, and thereby contribute to older persons coping.

Lectures and group work. A group essay on a given topic. Literature studies. Guidance. Mandatory courswork requirements: Participation in a student group delivering a mutual essay.