UMass Boston

Social Aspects Aging

Course #: GERON GR 621, Class #: 2647, Section #: 01

Description

This course presents a social perspective on the aging process. It considers social factors that influence aging and the nature of the integration of the aged into society, as well as the way in which population aging affects the society as a whole. The course also looks at social theories of aging, paying special attention to changing social roles, social stratification and aging, and the development of institutions for the aged. Gender, race, ethnicity, and class are discussed as social categories that influence aging and that play a role in the determination of social policy for the aged. Readings on the status, role, and culture of the aged are drawn from the literature of sociology, economics, and anthropology.