SS 102 - Social Problems

Credit Hours: 3

A social science examination of contemporary social problems in the light of long-range trends in society. Selection of specific areas for study is at the option of each instructor and his/her class.

Fulfills SUNY General Education – Social Sciences.

Course Outcomes
Upon completion of a Social Problems course focused on social gerontology, the student will be able to:

define social gerontology and discuss its origins and current area of focus;
discuss the reasons for and explain the research methods used to study social gerontology;
summarize biological and physiological changes related to aging;
discuss ways in which the environment can be modified to help accommodate biological changes;
distinguish chronic diseases that occur most frequently in older adults;
explain the cognitive changes that are linked to aging as well as the theories that explain such changes and adaptations;
discuss attitudes and beliefs about sex and love in old age;
explain the relationship between chronic illnesses and sexuality;
demonstrate an understanding of the social context older adults live in, such as living arrangements and employment;
discuss the social policies and social problems affecting older adults in the U. S.;
summarize attitudes toward death in our culture;
discuss conditions for the care of dying people and pain management;
define bereavement, grief and mourning; and
define and discuss acute and long-term care and the growing need for home care.

F/S (C, N, S)