Class Aging and Types of Old Age(s): Knowledge and Intervention

The course unit addresses the phenomenon of ageing in contemporary society, with particular emphasis on the Portuguese context. It examines the contributions of Geriatrics and Gerontology, understanding ageing as a dynamic and potentially active process. The course promotes students' engagement with different social care services for older adults, including Residential Care Facilities for Older People, Day Care Centres, and Home Care Services, linking theoretical knowledge with professional practice. It also explores Social Work approaches to ageing, developing competencies for ethical, critical, and person-centred intervention aimed at promoting autonomy, citizenship, and the quality of life of older people.

Not applicable

Contents to be covered in the Course Unit: 1. Demographic Change and Population Ageing: Key Challenges. 2. Conceptual Approaches to Old Age and Ageing: Meanings of ageing; theories and models of ageing; individual ageing. 3. Protection Systems in Old Age: The role of the State, institutions, and the family; health and well-being in later life (quality of life of older people, functional capacity, rehabilitation, psychosocial intervention in situations of dependency, autonomy, and the environment). 4. The Development of New Forms of Sociability in the Ageing Process and Later Life: Interpersonal networks, supportive and neighbourhood relationships, participation, and good practices. 5. Gerontological Social Work: Professional roles and practices.          

The course unit adopts active learning methodologies, including case-based learning, collaborative learning, discussion of scientific evidence, class debates, the use of digital resources, and engagement with real-world practice settings. These approaches promote critical thinking, student autonomy, and the integration of theory and practice.

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