GERN 5620: Physiology of Aging

Course Description:

This course provides the student with an overview of the changes that occur in the human body as a function of age. All of the major systems within the human body will be discussed ranging form the cardiovascular system to the central nervous system. This course focuses on the normal age-related physiological changes; however, age-related dysfunctional changes are discussed. Additional emphasis is placed upon the implications of physiological change on psychological functioning of the aging individual.

Course Level Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this class students will:

Develop a basic understanding of the functioning of the major systems within the human body: cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, endocrine, autonomic nervous, reproductive, central nervous, etc.
Develop a basic understanding of the functioning of the major sensory systems within the human body: visual, auditory, somesthetic, vestibular, gustatory, and olfactory.
Become familiar with the changes in the above systems with normal aging.
Become familiar with the changes in the above systems with non-normal aging.
Develop an understanding of the effect of these changes on the psychological functioning of the individual.

Prerequisites

It is assumed the student has adequate writing and analytical skills. Also, as for all Internet courses, the student must be disciplined and self-motivated. You must be capable of graduate level work. There are no prior courses required.

Course Materials

Please go to MBS Direct to find the appropriate textbooks for this course.

Please be aware when purchasing your textbooks that the International versions of the text may differ from the Domestic (North American) version required for your course.

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Course Activities

The course will be conducted entirely online. Students are expected to participate in all course activities as assigned by the instructor. Course grades may be based on successful completion of a term paper, examinations, and class participation, as reflected in contribution to weekly online discussions.

Policy Statements

In addition to being held to the standard University policy statements, each instructor will include policy statements specific to their course. To review the standard University Policies, please see the Graduate Academic Policies and Procedures.

This syllabus may be revised at the discretion of the instructor without prior notification or consent of the student.

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