Critical Reflections on a Social Inclusion Approach for an Ageing Australia

Abstract

While social exclusion has been identified as a major issue facing older Australians, it has not yet been identified as a priority area for Australian social policy on ageing. This paper critically examines the concept of social exclusion and the issues and challenges in applying a social inclusion approach to social work practice for Australia's ageing population. By critically examining the circumstances underpinning practices of social exclusion and highlighting the complexity of applying a social inclusion approach to ageing issues, this paper outlines the emerging issues and challenges for social workers in adopting a social inclusion approach to ageing issues in the Australian context. The analysis identifies a number of key issues that need to be addressed by service providers committed to redressing social exclusion in later life, including: economic deprivation, cumulative disadvantages, social participation and civic engagement, and cultural recognition.

Abstract

Keywords:

• Older People
• Social Exclusion
• Social Inclusion
• Intervention

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the two anonymous reviewers for their constructive comments and suggestions on an earlier draft of this paper.