Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 400837

Coordinator Tiffany Northall Opens in new window

Description This unit examines health and socio political issues in aged care within a social capital framework. Social constructs and contexts of ageing are explored and issues of social and economic disadvantage are examined. Equity and access to health care services and the experiences of older people within these services are also highlighted. The role of health professionals and managers in actively engaging in health and social policy debate for ethically just care and services for older people is addressed.

School Nursing & Midwifery

Discipline Community Health

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 2 10cp

Level Postgraduate Coursework Level 7 subject

Equivalent Subjects LGYA 7153 - Contemporary Issues in Aged Care

Restrictions

Students must be enrolled in a postgraduate program.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

1. critique representations of older people in policy, laws and legislation, and health/social service delivery;
2. evaluate the rationales for resource allocation, service provision and coordination of services for older people using a social capital approach;
3. critique models of health service delivery for older people, including models of wellness, user-pays, case management, and active ageing (WHO);
4. demonstrate an understanding of contemporary aged care issues from political, philosophical, legal and ethical positions;
5. critically discuss strategies for reform in the delivery of aged care services that take into account all stakeholders.

Subject Content

Living Longer - The demographics of ageing populations
A social capital approach to care and services
Healthy ageing
Active ageing and health promotion
Health issues for older people
Ageing and disability
A social inclusion approach for ageing
Representations of ageing - misconception and misperceptions
Discrimination against older workers
Retirement and lifestyle changes
The changing role of family and family members - expectations and limitations
Legal and ethical rights, responsibilities and legislation
Quality of life
Political, economic and consumer pressures shaping policy directions and funding
Knowledge translation - education and professional practice