Social Workers –Empowering Seniors to Live Stronger, Longer

NASW Recognizes National Public Health Week, April 4-10, 2005

WASHINGTON — The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and social workers across the country are at the forefront of meeting the challenge of serving a growing older population. While many Americans are remaining healthy well past retirement, others are saddled with preventable health problems.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, life expectancy rose from 2002 to 2003 and will continue to rise with the aging of the “baby boom” generation. NASW encourages older Americans to add more healthy years of life by adhering to the American Public Health Association's plan: Prevent, Protect and Plan . This is accomplished by assessing their current health status, identifying potential risks and creating a plan for maintaining health.

Social workers play an integral role in each of the three P's:

• Prevent – Social workers can guide older Americans through the myriad of preventative medical needs. These skilled professionals can also assist in adopting a healthy lifestyle and preventing accidents at work and in the home.
• Protect – Social workers provide the necessary resources for people to receive early detection screenings, potentially warning of health concerns. Many older people suffer from illnesses or diseases that can be treated if identified early.
• Plan – Social workers can be a tremendous asset to older Americans and their families by helping them to navigate their conditions and develop comprehensive care plans that promote health and well being among their older clients.

Social Work is the natural fit to provide services to older Americans. Those who specialize in the aging practice have the expertise, compassion and knowledge to help seniors find ways to live with independence and dignity.

For more information regarding aging and NASW, please visit www.socialworkers.org

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), in Washington, DC, is the largest membership organization of professional social workers with 150,000 members. It promotes, develops, and protects the practice of social work and social workers. NASW also seeks to enhance the well being of individuals, families, and communities through its advocacy.