• Understand the theoretical basis for age-related services and programs
• Differentiate between anecdotal and evidence-based knowledge
• Study and analyze one aging-related theory
• Read and analyze one research study designed to test the selected theory
• Discuss practical applications of the theory

The Role of Theories

Address the following questions

• Why do we need theories (in general)?
• How do aging theories change our perception of older adults?
• What is their relevance to those who work in this field?
• How can the quality of elder services be improved by these theories?

Select A Theory

Identify one biological, social or developmental theory

• Describe its premise, components, concepts & definitions, assumptions
• Address how and why the theory was developed

Select A Research study

• Must be a primary source
• Must be specifically designed to test the theory you had selected
• Found in a peer- reviewed journal
• Qualitative or quantitative in design
• Generally a control & experimental group

Additional Components

• Study limitations
• Recommendations for future study
• Relevance and application to practice
• Quality of writing