OVERVIEW

The course aims at providing theretical and practical knowledge about psychology of aging. From the theoretical point of view, the main sensorial, physical, cogntiive and social changes related to aging will be illustrated; form the practical point of view clinical assessment and intervention programs related to natural and pathological aging will be illustrated. 

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course, after a general overview of the problems associated with aging, aims to illustrate the main diagnostic techniques that can be used to identify cognitive disorders, neurodegenerative, and psychological, such as forms of depression. The possible forms of preventive/rehabilitative/conservative intervention will also be considered, both in the cognitive and in the psychosocial field, with a view to preserving the level of self-sufficiency of the elderly person.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of the course, the student will be able to:

• recognize the main aims and strategies adopted in the psychology of aging
• understand the sensorial, physical, cognitive and social changes related to natural aging
• identify the main pathological areas related to aging
• know and use some of the most important tools for the diagnosis and treatment in psychology of aging
• know and use some of the most known programs to support/improve the quality of life of aging people

PREREQUISITES

To successfully attend this course, students are expected to possess basic knowledge of the main areas of psychology and the fundamentals of psychological research methodology. In particular, foundational knowledge is assumed in the following areas: general psychology; developmental psychology; clinical psychology; psychometrics and research methodology; basic concepts of psychopathology and psychological assessment. In addition, in order to understand the topics covered in the course and complete the related assessment activities, students are expected to demonstrate: the ability to read and comprehend scientific texts in both Italian and English; basic skills in the critical analysis of scientific literature; and familiarity with the ethical principles and professional standards governing psychological practice.

TEACHING METHODS

The course may include a variety of teaching methods, such as lectures, group work, case study analysis and discussion, project-based activities, and other practical exercises aimed at deepening both theoretical knowledge and its practical applications. Teaching activities are conducted primarily in person. The instructor will provide supporting materials and additional resources to facilitate independent study. Class attendance is strongly recommended and represents an important component in achieving the course learning objectives. Any exemptions from attendance requirements may be granted by prior agreement with the instructor, following discussion of the student's specific circumstances.

Non-attending students are required to supplement their preparation through additional readings and bibliographic materials specified by the instructor. This additional work is intended to compensate for the lack of participation in classroom activities and to ensure that non-attending students achieve the same learning outcomes as attending students. Information regarding the additional reading materials will be provided at the beginning of the course or made available through the course online platform.

Erasmus and international students are encouraged to contact the instructor at the beginning of the course to discuss any necessary adaptations to the syllabus, teaching materials, and assessment procedures. Where appropriate, individualized examination arrangements may be agreed upon, provided that they remain consistent with the course learning objectives and the applicable academic regulations.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Firstly, the class will examine ageing processes and their effects on principal psychological functions. Secondly, the main steps of diagnostic process in ageing psychology as well as the most employed diagnostic test in geropsychology will be described. Attention will be focused to age related changes on cognitive functions as well as to depression and techniques/programs of ageing processes prevention so that people’s self-sufficiency period might be prolonged.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Suggested textbooks:

• De Beni R., Borella E. (2015). Psicologia dell’invecchiamento e della longevità, Il Mulino
• Bianchi A. (2013). L’esame neuropsicologico dell’adulto. Applicazioni cliniche e forensi, Giunti O.S.
• Di Nuovo S., Vianello R. (2013). Deterioramento cognitivo: forme, diagnosi e intervento. Una prospettiva Life-Span, F.Angeli
• Other books or book chapters could be indicated during the lessons

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

The course will be delivered during the first semester. In order to receive updates regarding any changes to the timetable and to access course materials, students are required to register for the course on the AulaWeb platform.

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam is composed of two written tests and the final mark will be calculated as the mean of the two tests:

• written test (multiple-choice) about the theoretical aspects of the course
• written test based on the simulation of a diagnostic process

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Evaluation of knowledge of the main theories on ageing, the process of diagnosis, the mode of administration and the areas of use of some of the more widespread diagnostic tests and of the possible intervention programs to maintain cognitive and social functions and prolong people self-sufficiency. 

FURTHER INFORMATION

For Students with Disabilities or Specific Learning Disorders (SLD)

Students with disabilities, Specific Learning Disorders (SLD), or Special Educational Needs (SEN) are reminded that, in order to request examination accommodations, they must first submit their certification to the Settore servizi per l’inclusione degli studenti con disabilità e con DSA. Subsequently, students with a disability or SLD who wish to request examination accommodations must complete the dedicated online form available on the following webpage: Servizi per studentesse e studenti con disabilità o con DSA | UniGe | Università di Genova. Students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) are required to send an email to the course instructor, copying both the School Representative for the Inclusion of Students with Disabilities and SLD (laura.traverso@unige.it) and the Student Inclusion Office (inclusione.studenti@info.unige.it).

The email must include:

• The course title;
• The date of the examination session;
• The student’s full name and student ID number;
• The compensatory tools and/or accommodations requested and considered necessary.

⚠️ Important: Requests for examination accommodations must be submitted well in advance (at least 7 working days before the examination date). Requests submitted after this deadline may not be accommodated. For further information regarding support services, accommodations, compensatory tools, and specific aids, please consult the document: Guidelines for Requesting Services, Compensatory Tools, Accommodations, and Specific Aids, available at: https://unige.it/disabilita-dsa/modulistica