Course Description: This course examines complex health alterations in the aging adult from a holistic caring framework. Emphasis is placed on the knowledge and science of nursing as it applies to the adaptation of the aging process, chronic illness and end of life.

Course Objectives: At the completion of the course the student will be able to:

1. Apply theories from the humanities and natural behavioral sciences to examine health alterations in the aging adult from a holistic caring framework.
2. Examine the role of research, evidenced based practices and patient preferences in the delivery of safe and compassionate nursing care to an aging population.
3. Differentiate the normal and abnormal processes of aging.
4. Incorporate nursing processes which demonstrate understanding of functionality and healthy aging.
5. Explore and apply the ethical, moral, and legal issues relevant in the care of older adults.
6. Evaluate data from a variety of resources to identify areas for quality improvement, patient safety and optimal health outcomes for the older adult.