Social Work Knowledge of Community-Based Services for Older Adults: An Educational Model for Social Work Students

Abstract

Social workers are often the key link between older adults, their families and community-based services. Thus, knowledge about older adults and community-based care is imperative for social work practice. Evaluation data are provided on a national multisite effort (N = 353) from 35 schools to assure graduate social work student's competency related to community services for older adults. Results suggest that the educational model as described in this article sets forth positive outcomes in the education of aging savvy social workers. Ongoing social work education is needed to meet the burgeoning needs of the geriatric population.

Keywords:

• older adults
• community services
• community-based care
• social work education

Acknowledgments

The authors thank all of the Principal Investigators, key personnel, and students of the Hartford Partnership Program for Aging Education (HPPAE). We also thank the John A. Hartford Foundation, New York Academy of Medicine, Social Work Leadership Institute for their support of HPPAE evaluation research.