SWK-743 Social Work Practice with Older Persons and Their Families

Course Overview

The focus of this course is on assessment and intervention with older people and their families. A primary, secondary, and tertiary intervention model is presented with emphasis on maintaining independence, using community-based services, and preventing institutionalization. The interdisciplinary aspects of gerontological social work, working with teams, and educating as well as learning from other professionals are addressed. Special attention is given to social work with older people with hearing loss; Alzheimer’s and other organic disorders; alcohol abuse; medication problems; bereavement, death, and dying; neglect; abuse and victimization; and social work practice with racial, ethnic, and sexual minorities.