Singapore University of Social Sciences

Social Policy in Gerontology

Social Policy in Gerontology (GER511)

Synopsis

Social Policy in Gerontology is concerned with macro issues in gerontology. There are various concepts, ideologies and welfare systems around the world and they differ in responses to the challenges of an ageing population. A critical analysis of the benefits and limitations of different approaches to policy and planning will be encouraged, so that students are cognizant of the consequences of the choices. Health, welfare, economic and housing policies will be given greater focus. Singapore’s choice of social policies and service delivery system will be analysed, interlinking the governmental and non-governmental service providers. Long term impact of the policies chosen will also be addressed.

Level: 5
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: Every January

Topics

  • Factors that influence Singapore policy and decision making
  • Comparison of international ageing policies
  • Examining Singapore’s social policy approach in ageing sector
  • Current issues in social policies related to older adults
  • Impact of social policies on health, social, financial and housing needs of older adults
  • Developing social policies using Patton et al (2012*) policy framework
  • Evaluating social policies using the “10 golden rules of policy analysis” from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy
  • Public policy making and advocacy
  • Practice sessions in social policy development and analysis
  • Ageing policies: development and evaluation
  • Case Study I
  • Case Study II

Learning Outcome

  • Analyse the key factors important in robust policy and decision making.
  • Examine relevant conceptual frameworks in analysis of social policy approaches.
  • Appraise knowledge of the ideologies, frameworks and methods in analysing social policy and social service delivery systems.
  • Discuss and apply theories of ageing towards planning and policy formulation.
  • Formulate possible strategies to address the challenges and opportunities of an ageing population and the possible barriers to successful policy planning.
  • Critique policy literatures with policy content to improve understanding of the impact of ageing population on various sectors, such as housing, finance, health.
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