Aging Practice Area

With the number of Americans aged 65 and older expected to double to more than 70 million by 2030, social work in aging is one of the fastest growing areas of focus in the profession. The field provides an opportunity to work with elders from diverse ethnic, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds who are active and healthy, as well as those living in compromised and challenging physical and mental health conditions. 

Examples of settings include inpatient and outpatient settings, community–based agencies, senior centers, and home-based services. Social work students will have the opportunity to work with individuals, families, groups, and communities, and offer support at the micro, mezzo, and macro level. Learning opportunities include geriatric assessment, crisis intervention, case management, counseling, outreach, and advocacy.