This article offers practical guidance for educators as they prepare specialists to enhance the lives and communities of older persons through the strategic use of visual media in age-related courses. Advantages and disadvantages of this learning innovation are provided as well as seven approaches for enriching instruction. Resources are included…

The problem of when to leave symbolism alone and when to plunge into interpretation is examined through an elderly woman's relationship to a doll. (FL)

Describes classroom learning activities for a college level psychology course on aging and explains how these and other activities can be used to interest students in a career in services for the aged. (Author/DB)

Sets forth some essential facts about the aging process and discusses issues of concern to those who teach art workshops to older adults. (FL)

Reports on school programs throughout the United States that are devoted to fostering a link between the young and the old. Lists six principles for operating such a program. (FL)

Explains how to use the techniques of interviewing to motivate older adults in a writing workshop. (FL)

Describes the author's initiation into the world of retired seamen as the men, in a writing workshop, related the stories of their lives as sailors and how their union was built. (FL)

Practical reasons to consider standards for gerontology are presented in this perspective on developing gerontological curriculum. The creation of a statewide task force in Virginia to provide guidelines for the organization and evaluation of gerontology programs in higher education is described. Assumptions which underscored task force activities…

Given the aging of the population, the need for an increased number of persons trained and educated in gerontology is evident. To date, gerontology curricula have been based upon institutional requirements and interests, such as the guidelines provided by the Foundations Project (1980). To expand these guidelines, the needs and interests of the…

Many senior citizens 75 to 83 years old (the fastest growing segment of our society) are attracted to the visual arts. Unfortunately, the visual arts and those who teach them are not ready for this new generation. Art teachers must prepare themselves to work with this group. Needs are discussed. (RM)

Describes topics and activities covered in a communication course for students who plan careers that include working with the elderly. (Offered at undergraduate and graduate levels in the departments of Social Work, Sociology, and Communication.) (PD)

The aged are generally identified by such criteria as chronological age, economic condition, physical appearance, psychological behavior, mental conditions, and social roles. While the present population of aged is characterized by lower educational and economic levels, it is anticipated that as the number of aged grows, the educational and…

Participation in genealogy projects can be beneficial to older adults. Such projects combine reminiscing about family histories with the creation of a product which can be shared with relatives. The result is improved self-esteem and a feeling of accomplishment. Genealogy projects can also provide a means by which younger people can interact with…

Designed for college administrators, this guide provides a synthesis of a broad spectrum of approaches to creating gerontology courses and curricula. First, an introductory chapter looks at reasons for developing a gerontological curricula, potential audiences for such a program (i.e., health care providers, other caregivers, older adults, and…