Social Ageing and Active Ageing

Theories on age-related reduction in social activity. Role transitions over the life course and particularly in the third and fourth age. Older persons as a resource. Senior workers and retirement.
Attitudes towards older persons, ageism and age discrimination.
Main elements of the politics of ageing. The definition of active ageing according to the World’s Health Organization (WHO).
Activity and participation in society, local neigbourhoods and in family life. Intergenerational contacts.

Knowledge
The student has broad knowledge and comprehension of
-the importance of active social participation, even in older years
-age changes and individual variation in the need for social participation and in preferred types of participation
-cultural attitudes towards ageing and older people

Skills
The student can
-reflect on his/her own attitudes towards ageing and older citizens
-give a critical evaluation of the concept of active ageing and what it implies in the third and fourth age
-use professional knowledge and relevant research to practical and theoretical questions concerning older persons’ participation in the society, in the local community and in the family

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’ participation according to their individual needs and wishes.

Lectures and group work. Guidance.
A group essay on a given topic. Literature studies.

Mandatoru assignments:
Participation in a student group delivering a mutual essay.