Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2020 - GERO 401 D100

Environment and Aging (3)

Class Number: 8417

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2020: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Vancouver

  • Prerequisites:

    60 units. Recommended: GERO 300.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Impact of the macro- and microenvironment as it affects the aged. Discussion of planned housing and institutional living arrangements, territoriality and the need for privacy, home range and use of space, urban planning, responsive design of housing and care facilities, effects of relocation and institutionalization.

COURSE DETAILS:

The built environment is an important factor in older adult’s physical, social and emotional well-being. Their interaction with the environment is affected by their physical capabilities, psychological needs and preferences, and socio-cultural rules. This is a multi-dimensional process that needs to be looked at from different perspectives. This course provides insight into innovative planning and design principles and solutions for older adults who may have physical and/or cognitive frailty. It offers: an overview of person-environment interaction; sensory changes with aging and their influence on environmental experience; architectural design issues in community and supportive housing for older adults.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

1.You will understand the physical, cognitive, and psychological characteristics of the aging population as it relates to the built environment
2.You will learn about objective and subjective aspects of housing needs of the aging population.
3.You will learn about residential alternatives for the aging population.
4.You will assess the residential environments and propose solutions for inclusive/universal design.
5.You will evaluate the impact of site and community planning on living environments for older adults.

Grading

  • Team Project 40%
  • Short Assignments / Field Trip 20%
  • Final Exam 40%

NOTES:

It is expected that daily reading assignments will be completed in preparation for class. It is expected that all work will be submitted on time on due dates specified for each assignment.

REQUIREMENTS:

Class Projects/Short Assignments
Field Trip Team Project: 2-person group
Final Exam

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

We will be using the Leganto Course Reserve Program for this course. You readings will listed/accessible through that program. Readings include research articles, book chapters, reports, etc. from various sources. Complete reading reference list will be shared in the course syllabus on the first day of classes.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS