Overview

The module will also allow students to explore how changes to family structures, social mobility impacts on the older adult and how national policy to supports health and well-being for an older ageing population and implications of an increasingly ageing society for health and social care services. The indicative content for this module includes:

1) Cultural dimensions of ageing and use of language 2) Dignity and respect 3) Demographic changes 4) Changing social structures and families 5) Social inclusion and social isolation 6) Equality legislation and policy related to the older adult 7) Exercise and physical and mental health 8) Living with a chronic condition

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -D+ to D-Demonstrate basic knowledge of some important theoretical sociological and medical approaches, as well as some awareness of the social nature of health and illness; describe the basic principles of the social patterning of health and illness in contemporary society; describe how ideas about health and illness are constructed differently by laypeople and by professionals; discuss experiences of health and illness in modern society; present an essay which is supported by basic referencing.

-good -B+ to B-Be able to provide a clear account of the key theoretical approaches to the sociology of health and medicine, appreciate the social patterning of health and illness in contemporary society, and compare and contrast differing explanatory frameworks; explain how medical knowledge is socially constructed, and how lay perspectives differ from professional perspectives on health and illness; evaluate the relationship between health and society, and the changing experiences and meanings of health and illness; produce an essay, well argued and with supporting information, which is adequately referenced.

-excellent -A* to A-Be able to evaluate the key theoretical approaches in the sociology of health, and to provide a comprehensive account of the social patterning of health and illness in contemporary society; to assess and evaluate competing explanations for variations in health according to social position, and offer a well argued point of view; to compare and contrast lay and professional perspectives, and to analyse the relationship between health and societal change; to show a full appreciation of the meaning of illness in contemporary society; to produce an essay which is cogently argued, fully supported by research findings, and fully referenced.

-another level-C+ to C- Be able to show a good knowledge of key theoretical approaches to the sociology of health and medicine, and demonstrate an awareness of the social nature of health and illness; describe the social patterning of health and illness in contemporary society and provide explanations of these; describe how ideas about health and illness are constructed differently by laypeople and by professionals in the field of medicine; show an awareness of the development of medical knowledge, and the changing experiences of health and illness in modern society; present an essay which is well supported by good referencing.

Learning Outcomes

• Debate the different cultural perceptions of the contributions the older adult makes to society and the impact this has on social inclusion or exclusion.

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the biopsychosocial factors relevant to the older adult.

• Discuss the key factors relevant to living with a terminal or progressive condition.

• Interpret international, national and local demographic trends in relation to ageing populations.