Gerontology
11 courses · Chaffey College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Summer 2026 · Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
GERO 11 Introduction to Gerontology
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48-54 Lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
Interdisciplinary overview of the diverse characteristics, strengths, and needs of the increasing number of older persons. Topics include aging services and community resources, occupations and career preparation in gerontology, information on aging and old age, laws and regulations governing work with the elderly, and ethical and policy issues.
GERO 18 The Social, Cultural, and Policy Issues of an Aging Society
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48-54 Lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
The scientific study of the social, cultural, and policy issues for an aging society from a gerontological perspective. Through gerontological research, study diversity in the aging process: cultural, economic, gender, and racial/ethnic differences. Study aging as a social construct including life-long age status and role expectations based on a gerontological perspective. Emphasis on society's response and the subsequent effects on individuals and their family/friends.
GERO 22 Dying and Death
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48-54 Lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Study of death from a gerontological perspective, including historical views, societal practices, cross-cultural influences, biomedical issues including active and passive euthanasia, suicide, death rites, and the grieving process. Overview of the legal aspects of organ donation, autopsies, advanced directives, and living wills.
GERO 23 Aging and Older Adulthood
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48-54 Lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Study of the aging process from a gerontological perspective with emphasis on major psychological theories of aging, stereotypes about aging and older adults, changes in physical health, cognition, mental health, and social relationships during later life.
GERO 24 Intergenerational Relationships and Aging
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48-54 Lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course examines relationships and interactions between older adults (65+) and other age groups in family, community, and societal contexts. Topics include demographic trends in aging, theoretical perspectives on intergenerational solidarity and the life course, parent–adult child and grandparent–grandchild relationships (including caregiving and custodial grand-parenting), non-kin intergenerational contacts, cultural influences on age relations, and the design, implementation, and evaluation of intergenerational programs and policies.
GERO 97AB Gerontology Career Experience Internship
- Units
- 1-2
- Prerequisite
- Completion with a C or better in: GERO 18 or GERO 24 and; GERO 22
- Transfers to
- CSU
Supervised work experience in public or private agencies, facilities, or organizations. Designed to apply gerontological knowledge, learn new skills, and provide career-related work experience in community situations. Instructor helps student with placement, and maintains contact with student throughout semester via online tools and resources. May be taken 4 times.
GERO 98ABC Independent Study: Gerontology
- Units
- 1-3
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is designed for the capable gerontology student who wishes to explore and develop an independent project in gerontology. Individual inquiry, special techniques, and selected readings are expected. Student and instructor must reach agreement concerning the topic and scope of the project prior to student's registration.
GERO 400 Principles of Caregiving: Older Adults and Their Care
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 48-54 Lecture
Functions and responsibilities of caregiving for older adults in both formal and informal settings. Students will explore medically-related needs, as well as the social and emotional needs of those receiving care. Topics include individualized assessment, problem solving, interventions, effective communication, client advocacy, and functional decline factors.
GERO 455 Resources and Services for Older Adults
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 32-36 Lecture, 48-54 Laboratory
Provides students with skills needed to access community resources and services for older adults. An introduction to resources, services, eligibility requirements, and funding. An overview of strategies to locate resources through direct contact as well as Internet research. Students acquire a basic understanding of applications pertinent to gerontological service settings, and learn to locate resources, programs, and services for older adults.
GERO 600 Principles of Caregiving: Older Adults and Their Care
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 48-54 Lecture
Functions and responsibilities of caregiving for older adults in both formal and informal settings. Students will explore medically-related needs, as well as the social and emotional needs of those receiving care. Topics include individualized assessment, problem solving, interventions, effective communication, client advocacy, and functional decline factors.
GERO 655 Resources and Services for Older Adults
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- 32-36 Lecture, 48-54 Laboratory
Provides students with skills needed to access community resources and services for older adults. An introduction to resources, services, eligibility requirements, and funding. An overview of strategies to locate resources through direct contact as well as Internet research. Students acquire a basic understanding of applications pertinent to gerontological service settings, and learn to locate resources, programs, and services for older adults.