The first book to focus specifically on practical gerontology field experiences This innovative text guides gerontology students step by step through the process of searching for, securing, and completing an aging-based internship, practicum, or field placement. It underscores the value of hands-on, community-based learning and provides a framework for identifying experiences that fit a student's academic requirements and professional objectives. The text describes the multitude of interdisciplinary and interprofessional career opportunities available for those working with or on behalf of older adults, ranging from traditional opportunities in health and human services to careers in leisure, business, housing, and finance. The text not only draws attention to ageism's presence and inappropriateness, but also discusses ways to detect, avoid, and actively dismantle ageist beliefs and actions. Emphasizing that there is no such homogenous block as "the elderly," the book helps students to understand the varied experiences of aging. It addresses important nuances in working with older adults including the development of effective communication skills, awareness of diversity, and the development of cultural competencies. Real-life scenarios and activities throughout are designed to enhance content and support students' professional and personal growth. Readers are also introduced to the interprofessional aging service system, delineating ways to navigate the complex network of policies, programs, and personnel, along with a discussion of the unique roles, responsibilities, and perspectives in these settings. Practical information for transitioning from student to professional includes tips on job search, resumE preparation, and networking. Purchase includes digital access for use on most mobile devices or computers. Key Features: Addresses the interdisciplinary nature of gerontology practice throughout health and human services Focuses on ageism among professionals in health and human services and how to detect, avoid, and eliminate it Explores significant nuances in working with older adults including effective communication and awareness of diversity and cultural competency Covers understanding and supporting older individuals with physical and/or cognitive impairments Includes an extensive glossary to better navigate interprofessional communication Each chapter incorporates real life scenarios, learning objectives, professional development activities, savvy professional tips, pitfalls to avoid, and discussion questions Instructors have access to the Instructor's Manual and chapter PowerPoints to facilitate teaching.

This volume discusses why faculty and administrators of academe should care about implementing family-friendly policies and practices, as well as how they can advocate for policy changes. In section one, the book's focus is on empirical studies that demonstrate the need for innovative programs and policies for faculty at colleges and universities. These pieces explore issues such as the value of work/life programs for employee retention, the need for a variety of family support policies including elder care, and the influence of workplace culture on the use of existing policies. Section two includes case studies of the process of formulating family-friendly policies and their adoption at a variety of universities. The subjects of these chapters include use of the Family and Medical Leave Act, the enactment of a parental leave policy, the development of a unique "life cycle professorship program," and strategies used to implement new policies. The case study chapters provide descriptions of the identification of faculty and staff needs and the process of policy development as well as advice to faculty and administrators who seek to develop similar policies at their institutions.

A one-of-a-kind guide to active, engaging learning strategies for aging studies. Harnessing the proven benefits of active learning strategies, this is the first activity book created for a broad spectrum of courses in aging-related higher education. It features 32 classroom and community-based educational activities for instructors seeking to introduce and/or enhance aging content in their courses. Underscoring the interdisciplinary nature of aging studies, the book encompasses teaching strategies for instructors in such disciplines as Counseling, Family Studies, Gerontology, Geriatrics, Medicine, Psychology, Public Administration, Public Health, Nursing, Social Work, Sociology, Speech Pathology, and others. This peer-reviewed collection of hands-on activities is designed by noted educators in aging and incorporates AGHE competencies. It offers clear, step-by-step procedures for implementing each activity including preparation, introduction, the activity itself, discussion/reflection, wrap-up, and assessment. The book also addresses learning outcomes and includes recommendations for number of participants, settings, materials, and time required. Encompassing key, impactful issues affecting older individuals, the text examines Ageism and Aging in the Media, Dementia, Demography, Health Care, Housing, Physical Aging, Policy and Politics of Aging, Positive Interactions with Older Adults, and Spirituality. In addition to its value to students, the book's activities are also beneficial to professionals instructing or participating in staff trainings, in-services, and continuing education. Key Features: Contains 32 experiential learning activities for students in a great variety of aging-related disciplines Designed for activities in the classroom, in the community, on line, and take- home Provides clear, step-by-step procedures for each activity from implementation through assessment Addresses student learning outcomes and includes a glossary Incorporates AGHE competencies