Learning outcomes of the curricular unit

Learning goals:
1. the students must understand that the subjects that comprise Elder Law impact people in a very personal way, and every one of us will encounter some of these as we pass through life. They must be particularly aware of abuses and exploitation of the vulnerability of older people.
2. they must know the meaning of the principle of equal treatment and the proihibition of discrimination on grounds of age, the meaning of capacity and incapacity, and the "best interests" standard, the existing legal mechanisms to protect their interests, the legal status, limitations and uses of advanced directives ;
3. the students should know and apply the most important legal schemes which are indicated and provided to them, and they should also indentify the fundamental lines necessary to discuss the most controversial issues in this area.

Syllabus

Part I:
Introduction
1. Elder law. Definition and justification for elder law.
2. Age discrimination. Defining discrimination. Direct and indirect discrimination. Legal remedies for discrimination.

Part. II: Capacity, incapacity and old age.
1. The importance of autonomy. The competent. Treatment of a person lacking capacity. The best interests principle. The Mental Health Act.

Part III. Elder abuse. The forms of elder abuse. Criminal Law. Civil remedies. Changing attitudes and responses to elder abuse.

Part IV. End of life issues.