Course overview
This course provides a comprehensive and practical overview of the law as it impacts upon older people and people with a disability and, where relevant, their support networks. The course examines the legal rights of older people and people with a disability with a focus on the interdisciplinary responses to ageing and disability and Australian and international responses to these legal issues particularly in relation to abuse, decision making, health, financial and accommodation issues and discrimination.
Theories of ageing and disability and the interdisciplinary nature of ageing and disability; ageism and ableism in Australian society; professional and ethical considerations in working with and representing older people and people with disabilities; capacity and consent; guardianship and decision making; abuse; restrictive practices, care and retirement accommodation; health; financial planning; age and disability discrimination; workplace issues and succession planning.
Course learning outcomes
- Synthesise legal and policy issues impacting upon older people and people with a disability and apply this understanding to identify appropriate legal responses
- Evaluate legal frameworks affecting older people and people with disabilities and identify the extent to which they are adequate or should be reformed
- Address ethical considerations affecting people working with, or advising, older people or people with a disability and their support group (healthcare and legal professionals, carers and facility administration)
- Enhance students' communication skills through client interviewing exercises and the completion and drafting of pertinent legal documents