GE Cluster 80A,B,CW
Frontiers in Human Aging: Biomedical, Social and Policy Perspectives
| Lecture Schedule: | Monday, Wednesday 3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. – DeNeve Auditorium |
| Faculty: | JoAnn Damron-Rodriguez, Ph.D., School of Public Affairs Rita B. Effros, Ph.D., School of Medicine Tara Gruenewald, Ph.D., School of Medicine Barry Bortnick, Ph.D., Humanities |
This course explores the phenomenal increase in life expectancy, known as the “Longevity Revolution,” by viewing the lifelong process of aging from a variety of perspectives. Students study biological and biomedical aging, with an emphasis on how scientific breakthroughs relate to health and increased independence. In parallel, the course also integrates psychological, sociological, and policy perspectives addressing issues such as how gender, race, ethnicity, social environment, and economic factors interact with aging; the role of stress in aging; disparities in health care; the role of life review, creativity, and other artistic endeavors affecting the experience of aging; and how health habits established during youth can affect both the quality of life in later years and lifespan itself.
Historical perspectives on cohorts, such as the Baby Boomers and Millenials, as they age over time, are applied to analyze the impact of the social and political environment on the aging experience. Further insights on aging are explored through a look at how literature, the arts, and mythology cast light on aging as an aspect of the human condition. Controversies and ethical questions related to genetic engineering, stem cell use for regenerative medicine, forced retirement and end-of-life issues are explored, as are other relevant topics such as economic opportunities based on the aging market, and cultural differences in intergenerational dynamics. We welcome all students, whatever their prospective major, who are interested in exploring fundamental issues that relate to living a healthier and happier life from the cradle to the grave.
The course also features:
- A diverse array of guest speakers including physicians, neuroscientists, and experts in sexuality and retirement
- “Service Learning” at organizations such as a “Cyber-Cafe” for seniors and an intergenerational day care center serving the ethnically diverse older Los Angeles community
- An elder interview project
- Attending a performance of a musical about aging written and directed by one of the course faculty
- Independent review of portrayals of aging in popular media
Spring Seminars – previous titles include:
- Role of the immune system in health, aging and longevity
- Sexuality and aging
- Diversity in aging
- Death and dying
- Humanities, Arts, and Aging
Foundation Area General Education Credit
Upon completion of all three quarters of the cluster, students will satisfy 3 GE course requirements:
- 2 in Foundations of Society & Culture (Social Analysis)
- 1 in Foundations of Scientific Inquiry (Life Science without lab/demonstration credit)
