This course introduces learners to the unique physical, psychological, social, nutritional, and safety needs of older adults. Learners explore age‑related changes, effective communication strategies, health promotion, safety considerations, and coping mechanisms to support quality of life and healthy aging in geriatric patients.
Module 1: Overview of Aging
Definition of the geriatric population
Physiological changes associated with aging
Sexuality and aging considerations
Module 2: Basic Skills for Geriatric Care
Health promotion and wellness strategies for older adults
Age‑related nutritional needs and considerations
Module 3: Communication with Older Adults
Therapeutic communication techniques
Nonverbal communication strategies
Common barriers to effective communication
Module 4: Safety Needs of Older Adults
Risk factors for falls and preventable injuries
Safety promotion and injury prevention measures
Medical and community resources for safety emergencies
Module 5: Roles, Relationships, and Coping
Psychosocial stressors associated with aging
Effective coping mechanisms
Signs of ineffective coping
Understanding the normal grief process
After completing this course, the learner will be able to:
Identify the characteristics and needs of the geriatric population
Recognize common physiological changes associated with aging
Apply strategies to promote health, nutrition, and wellness in older adults
Use therapeutic and nonverbal communication techniques with geriatric patients
Identify safety risks and implement measures to prevent injury
Recognize psychosocial stressors, coping mechanisms, and the normal grief process
Certificate of completion
This class is an independent-study course. Students will have all the resources needed to successfully complete the course within the online material. A student helpdesk is available for technical support during the course enrollment.