End-Of-Life: Care With Older Adults

A review of the history and current practices for end-of-life care (palliative care, hospice care) establishes the context of this course. Students learn about the physical, mental and spiritual concerns of older adults as these older adults face their own death or the death of a loved one. Strategies for meeting these concerns are discussed in terms of non-medical, physical, mental and spiritual comfort. Additional discussion topics include: family dynamics at the end of life, advanced directives, funeral rites, body disposal, bereavement care and working in a multidisciplinary care environment. The method of instruction involves lectures, films and guest speakers. (lec 3) cr 3.