N17: Aging-well: Combating the Changes of Aging

Course Overview

CE Hours

3 CE Credits

Course Description

Aging Well: Combating Changes examines the physical and social changes associated with aging and the strategies that can combat deterioration and support healthy, independent living. This course covers the physiological changes that occur with aging across all body systems, adaptive and non-adaptive responses to age-related losses, dementia and depression in the elderly, practical strategies for combating aging through exercise, mental stimulation, nutrition, sleep, social relationships, and stress management, and effective teaching approaches for senior adults. Learners will develop the ability to support aging individuals and their families with evidence-based strategies for healthy aging.

Course Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, learners will be able to:

Identify effective teaching strategies for educating senior adults including considerations for learning environment and communication

  • Describe the physical changes that can be expected with aging across body systems including sensory, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and neurological changes
  • Identify improvements that can occur with aging including enhanced problem-solving and comprehension skills
  • Describe the social changes and losses associated with aging and their psychological impact
  • Distinguish between adaptive and non-adaptive responses to age-related losses
  • Define dementia and describe how depression can be misdiagnosed as dementia in the elderly
  • Identify the symptoms of depression in older adults and explain why it often goes undiagnosed
  • Describe strategies for combating aging deterioration including exercise, brain stimulation, nutrition, sleep, medical care, social relationships, and stress management

Course Format and Faculty

Course Format:

Online linked resources and lectures available anytime, 24/7. Includes one multiple-choice exam taken at the end of the course. A passing grade of 75% is required. Upon passing, learners may print their certificate immediately.

Course Developers and Instructors:

R. Klimes, PhD, MPH (Johns Hopkins University) is a scholar and author in health-related research, health behaviors, ethics, end-of-life care, and overall wellness. He has written numerous research reports and books and has held academic and leadership roles in higher education and public health internationally.

Course Time:

Approximately 3 hours for online study, test taking, course evaluation feedback, and certificate printing.