This course examines selected areas of clinical social work practice that reflect current issues and models of intervention used with older adults and their families with an emphasis on a biopsychosocial perspective. Approaches taught include both assessment and treatment modalities in a variety of practice settings (community and institutions). Students will have the opportunity to learn about doing comprehensive assessments and formulate appropriate interventions for this population. Issues related to healthy aging, ethical dilemmas and working with diverse populations are interwoven into the content of the entire course. This advanced practice course will utilize a combination of lectures, class discussions, case studies, use of videotapes and guest lecturers to teach skills, which will enable students to examine practice issues in working with older adults. By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Formulate a comprehensive social work assessment based on this population
- Understand cognitive /mental and physical health status of older people and its effect on functioning and independence as well as how these health issues are affecting the family/caregiver.
- Enhance clients/ families’ abilities to cope with changes though a variety of treatment modalities (e.g., face-to-face, groups and online interventions).
- Understand the social work perspective within a multidisciplinary geriatric setting.