Our study of aging will explore physical, cognitive, and social development during middle age (40–65), late adulthood (ages 65 and older), and the end of life. Using a lifespan perspective, we will consider the stability and change (gains and losses) across these domains. For example, although older adults show declines in prospective memory, or remembering to do something in the future, they perform similarly on recognition tasks as young adults do, and they perform better than young adults on tasks where they have expertise. We will also consider the social context, including social interactions with family and friends, retirement, and perceptions of older adults.
Our study of human biology will explore the general changes in human biology and physiology that accompany aging. We examine what is known about the biological mechanisms and review current theories of aging. We will look at the diseases that become more prevalent with age and explore how current life decisions can impact future health outcomes. We will focus on the musculoskeletal, endocrine, and digestive systems to explore the complex interplay of the molecules and cells of the human body. Learners will use their own bodies as frameworks for inquiry through weekly yoga/anatomy sessions.
Learners will pursue independent work that explores the connection between psychology and biology to develop a deeper understanding of the biopsychosocial model of aging and its impact on individuals.
This program incorporates Greener Foundations. Greener Foundations is Evergreen’s in-person 2-quarter introductory student success course, which provides all first-year students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive at Evergreen. First-year students who register for 14 credits in this program will be placed into Greener Foundations for an additional 2 credits, totaling 16 credits; those students will participate in all aspects of the program, but have some reduced assignments to balance out their work here with their Greener Foundation assignments.
Anticipated Credit Equivalencies (16 credits)
8 - Psychology of Adult Development
8 - Human Biology
Anticipated Credit Equivalencies (14 credits)
7 - Psychology of Adult Development
7 - Human Biology
Registration
Academic Details
psychology, social work, human services, working with older adults, living one's life fully