PBH 354 - Aging and Communication

This course explores how communication practices shape the lifelong aging process, focusing on life’s middle and later years. The course will focus on the messages, social interactions, relationships, media, and communication technologies that influence the experience of aging. The course examines the intersections of aging and communication processes in intergenerational relationships, families, long-term marriages, media depictions of aging, communities, healthcare systems, and the workplace. The course will examine normal age-related changes to communication systems. Specifically, it will focus on age-related language, cognition, and social communication changes. Neurological cognitive-communicative disorders (e.g., aphasia, and dementia), which are often associated with aging, will also be discussed. Students will learn theories of aging and communication, read current research, and apply class concepts to improve their understanding of and relationships with older adults. Students will work with a local community agency for the final project. Field hours will be required.

Credit Hours: 3

Course Repeatability: Course may not be repeated. Maximum Repeatable Hours: 3 Repeat Limit: 0
Major Restriction Public Health or Gerontology