Goals
This module is intended to provide a brief overview of the
normal physical changes associated with aging, as well as some
of the more common disorders that affect older adults. In addition,
the module is intended to convey some of the implications and
human impact of this information. After reviewing this module,
the user should be able to:
- Describe the normal physical changes associated with aging;
- Describe the everyday impact of normal aging-related changes;
- Identify some common disorders that affect older adults;
and
- Access resources for seeking out further information.
Target Audience
The target audience for this module is post-secondary students
and/or professionals who plan to work with the elderly. It will
be most useful to users who have little or no previous training
in basic physiology and/or geriatrics.
Structure
The module begins with a true/false quiz on some myths and
misconceptions about physiological aging (see
a list of quiz questions here). As the user answers each
quiz question, their score is tallied and they view a section
of the module related to the question. Each section of the module
focuses on a different part of the body. Each section includes:
summary information about an area of the body, one or more learning
activities, and references to materials for further reading
on the topic. The learning activities are intended to engage
the user interactively, put a human face on physical issues,
and/or provide stimuli for further thoughts or discussion.
Scope
The scope of this module is age-related physiologic changes.
With a few exceptions, the information generally does not focus
on specific diseases. The information presented here also does
not focus on psychological or social issues, which can have
a significant impact on physiological well-being.
Instructor Information
All of the modules in IOA Learning were planned as self-paced
learning activities that could be incorporated into instructional
settings in different ways:
- as an assignment, such as an out-of class reading assignment;
- as a distance learning experience;
- or as an in-class activity -- the module provides thought-provoking
questions and activities that can stimulate a group discussion.
Feel free to link to any or all of the modules. We would be
happy to hear your feedback and suggestions.
User Assistance
The "Tools & Info" menu at the top right of every
screen includes technical assistance information and answers
to frequently asked questions.
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