This subject explores the fundamental aspects of ageing and introduces theoretical perspectives and approaches to the study of ageing from various disciplines. It will examine the causes and consequences of ageing at the micro (individual) and macro (population) levels. This subject also focuses on investigating the social, physical and mental changes humans undergo as they age, as well as the impact of the elderly population on social, economic and political institutions.

This subject focuses on the changes that occur in the human body as a result of ageing, including alterations in anatomy and physiology, as well as the implications for health and disease. Content will include characteristics and theories of biological ageing, physiological changes and age-related chronic disorders of pertinent organ systems such as the cardiovascular and respiratory system, musculoskeletal system, digestive system, sensory system, and urinary system. The concept of healthy ageing, the role of health promotion and disease prevention strategies and emerging technologies for longevity will also be addressed.

This subject presents a systematic way of thinking and knowledge discovery known as scientific inquiry. Topics covered include the theoretical foundation of social research, research ethics, research design, qualitative and quantitative research methods encompassing semi-structured interviews and survey design, data analysis as well as the interpretation and presentation of research results. Evaluation of efficacy and effectiveness of health programmes will also be examined.

The subject will introduce the key areas of study under public health, with a focus on current and emerging global health challenges impacting older populations across developed and developing countries. Topics will examine patterns, causes and effects of health and diseases in older populations, analyse the efficiency of healthcare services and delivery, and understand the interconnectedness of health in the developed and developing worlds.

The subject will examine the structural, physiological, psychological, and functional changes occurring during adulthood and the implications of these for the planning and implementation and evaluation of exercise programmes for older adults.

This subject provides students with a foundation in programme conceptualisation, organisation, execution and management. Transcending the various principles of project, event and activity development and management, students will examine current and emerging practices. This will include the examination of selected institutions e.g. nursing homes, community centres, tourism agencies, and existing programmes as case studies. Students will plan the design, budgeting, management strategies and evaluation of a programme.

This subject focuses on prevalent mental health disorders among older adults, with a special emphasis on dementia, its impact on individuals, families and society. Students will acquire a comprehensive understanding of person-centred dementia care, delivered through classroom learning and on-site work-based learning, to promote mental well-being and enhance the quality of life of individuals with dementia. The subject also explores non-pharmacological approaches, and emerging trends and technologies for improving dementia care.

This subject introduces the principles of coaching and case management to assess needs and evaluate options, services and programmes required to meet individual-specific needs. Multidisciplinary approaches are introduced and the subject examines social, cultural and psychological perspectives and appropriate strategies to achieve goals and empower the older adult.

This subject explores the interdisciplinary field of gerontechnology, which combines gerontology and technology. It focuses on understanding the connection between older people and technology, and how appropriate design and new technologies can be leveraged to promote independent living, autonomy, and support networks for the elderly to improve quality of ageing. Students will also learn behaviour design principles that can be used to customise programs and services to encourage health-promoting behaviours among older adults.

This subject consists of classroom learning and a practicum component. It covers key counselling skills, approaches and interventions commonly used in working with older adults. Students will be equipped with tools to assess, intervene, and provide psychological support to older adults. Students will embark on a practicum to apply the skills learnt.

This subject consists of classroom learning and a practicum component. It examines the role of the family in the older person’s experience of ageing and approaches to collaborate with the family unit to co-create solutions. Changing norms and values that influence interactional dynamics within the family system will also be explored. Students will embark on a practicum to apply the skills learnt.

This subject consists of classroom learning and a practicum component. It provides knowledge and skills required to assess older adults’ health status and assist with nursing care, therapeutic exercises and mobility training. Students will embark on a practicum to apply the skills learnt. Topics include medication administration, assistance with activities of daily living and measurement of vital signs, ambulation and transfers, falls prevention and groupwork facilitation.

This subject teaches the fundamental skills required in junior executive roles in purpose-driven entities, especially those in the ageing sector. This also involves examining demonstrated strategies to achieve sustainability in various organisational types such as non-profits, social enterprises and profit-with-a-purpose companies. Topics cover volunteer management and retention, cross-sector collaboration, measuring social impact, client-centric values, fundraising, resource mobilisation, risk management, and social innovation.

This subject examines the skills, roles and responsibilities of an effective team leader in the non-profit sector. Students will be exposed to practical and contextualised learning through job shadowing with relevant organisations.

The subject will provide an understanding of the principles and approaches to community development and how these can be applied to work with older adults to address some of their major challenges. Students will be introduced to the methodologies of community development that will enable them to design intervention programmes that also harnesses the potential of older adults.