lecture 1

Question 1

what is gerontology?

Answer 1

the scientific study of old age and the process of growing old

Question 2

what is geriatrics?

Answer 2

a specialty of medicine for treatment of diseases related to older age

Question 3

what is intergenerational equity?

Answer 3

balanced support of older and younger people through public policy and public expenditures

Question 4

as populations age…

Answer 4

1. impact on the social structure
2. change in the health status of the population

Question 5

what is W.H.O’s definition of health

Answer 5

a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity

Question 6

in older adults 65+, how many have 2-3 chronic conditions? how many have 4 or more?

Answer 6

46% have 2-3
16.6% have 4+

Question 7

note*

Answer 7

levels of ‘happiness’ and ‘life satisfaction’ are higher in older adults compared to 25-64y group

almost 70% of older adults perceive their mental health ‘excellent’ or ‘good’

Question 8

what is the definition of ‘myth’

Answer 8

a widespread belief that is not well supported by evidence

Question 9

what is stereotyping vs prejudice vs discrimination?

Answer 9

stereotyping: beliefs not well supported by evidence

prejudice: we decide based on our beliefs

discrimination: we act based on our beliefs

(probably need more in depth understanding of the distinctions for exam)

Question 10

what is the third great ‘ism’ in our (Canada) society?

Answer 10

ageism

Question 11

why does ageism come about?

Answer 11

feeling of distaste for aging

seeing old age as a time of weakness, sickness, dying

people know little about old age and what they do know is based on myth and fear

(best way to fight ageism –> demystifying the myths by education)