Foundations of Social Work Practice in the Field of Aging

"The need for qualified gerontological social workers is at an all-time high. With the aging population projected to dramatically increase over the next few decades, social workers must understand how to effectively aid older clients with a wide range of political, social, cultural, and economic experiences. Foundations of Social Work Practice in the Field of Aging: A Competency-Based Approach (2nd edition), written by Colleen M. Galambos, Roberta R. Greene, Nancy P. Kropf, and Harriet L. Cohen, relies on the latest CSWE core competencies to explore micro, mezzo, and macro practice with older adults through an ecological perspective. The authors present multiple assessment tools, demonstrating how to craft service plans and determine client goals. This book challenges practitioners to confront their own biases and assumptions about aging, providing help-seeking models to help practitioners further develop cultural competence. Ethical dilemmas, professional values, and the UN Principles for Older Persons are discussed. Readers will learn methods and skills for effective individual and group practice with older adults and assessment techniques to evaluate communities and organizations for age friendliness. Several policy analysis models are also presented, encouraging practitioners to combat ageism and address issues through policy advocacy and community organization. The book concludes with an in-depth discussion of case management and how it applies to the aging population. In each chapter additional resources, exercises, and case studies are included to illustrate the best practices and important concepts associated with each competency. Drawing on the profession s latest standards and frameworks, this book is a vital tool for gerontology professionals in a wide variety of settings."