Older Adults & Families Concentration

The Older Adults & Families Concentration will prepare you to serve the fastest growing segment of the population—adults over age 65—and their families. You will learn to integrate Clinical and Macro practices as you work with your clients and the social policies and programs that affect their lives.

Our courses encompass the full range of health and mental health services for older adults, including those who "age in place" in their homes and communities. You will learn the policy and advocacy functions of the local, state, and national aging networks, and examine ways social policy will need to respond to the growing political influence of this population.

Our graduates provide a wide range of service as the needs and interests of older adults expand from traditional nursing homes to assisted-living and independent-living facilities. You might pursue a career in hospital services for the elderly or home care within communities.

The Older Adults & Families concentration offers students a unique opportunity to participate in the Hartford Partnership Program for Aging Education (HPPAE). The program utilizes a combination of rotational field placements, integrative seminars, and financial aid to students working with older adults.

HPPAE FAQs (PDF)
HPPAE Application (PDF)

Clinical and Macro Social Work

Required courses include:
SW 823 Practice in Health and Mental Health Settings with Older Adults
SW 802 Policy for an Aging Society: Issues and Options

Go to Curriculum Plans »