- A Guide to Gerontology -

In this seminar we will canvas the entire journey of the body and mind through its process of “aging with grace”…
We will examine the “how and why” we age, the transformation of the organ systems and the pathology of aging; the warning signals and tips of the iceberg;
We will look at the psychology and sociology of aging and focus upon the steps that can be taken to ease the journey and avoid some of the pitfalls.
We will look at several of the most common diseases of the aging and elderly, long term care, realistic exercises and daily routine alterations, palliative care, the stress of care giving, the grief of loss, the stress of adjustment…
A serious, down-to-earth examination of the body in transformation; when “fight or flight” becomes “bumps in the night”.

Seminar Outline

Introduction to Gerontology

• Terminology, definitions, age groups;
• Theories of Aging;
• Basic principles of geriatric care;
• Medication and the aged client.

Physiology of Aging-organized per organ systems

• Presentation of the main normal, physiological modifications that occur with aging;
• Supportive measures for helping the body deal with the normal aging process: nutrition, supplements, herbs, others.

Pathology of Aging- organized per organ systems

• Presentation of the main diseases and accidents of the elderly;
• Alternative medicine approach per condition: nutrition, supplements, herbs, others.

Psychology of Aging: what your client feels about aging and how can we help them through their journey

Sociology of Aging

• Short and long term care aspects;
• Living wills, POA’s;
• Palliative care, hospice care, death and dying;
• Caregivers and Gerontology teams.