Older People, Ageing and Social Work Knowledge for Practice

by Hughes, Mark; Heycox, Karen

• ISBN13: 9781742370606
• ISBN10: 1742370608
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2010-11-01
• Publisher: Allen & Unwin

Summary

A systematic and research-based introduction to social work practice with older people

The reality of our aging population means all social workers need to be confident in working with older people. Social workers are engaged in ongoing practice with older people in a variety of contexts, from hospitals, aged care assessment teams, and mental health services to employment services, housing services, and rehabilitation services. Older People, Ageing and Social Work draws on theoretical, research, policy, and practice knowledge to inform contemporary practice with older people. Hughes and Heycox demonstrate that high level professional skills are required in this area as well as detailed knowledge of the issues affecting older people's lives. They argue that practitioners need to take into account the social and emotional needs of the older people they work with, as well as the practical and administrative aspects of their roles. They emphasize understanding the diversity of the older population and enabling older people to make the most of their strengths and capacities.

Author Biography

Mark Hughes is Senior Lecturer in the School of Social Work and Human Services at the University of Queensland. He has worked as a social worker in health, mental health, and aged care settings. Karen Heycox is Senior Lecturer in Social Work and Chair of Field Education, School of Social Sciences and International Studies at the University of New South Wales. She has worked with older people, as well as other client groups, in the hospital and community health sectors.