Aging Practice Tools

NASW is developing a task force for the revision of the 2016 Standards for Social Work Practice in Health Care Settings. NASW reviews and revises these standards to update best practices in the field of health care. Social workers utilize these guidelines to establish protocols and as a reference for delivering high-quality care.

NASW has extended the public comment period for draft practice standards addressing long-term services and supports (LTSS). These standards, prepared by a volunteer task force of NASW members in collaboration with NASW staff, pertain to LTSS provided by social workers to people of all ages in home- and community-based settings and in facilities. NASW welcomes input on the standards from all social workers (regardless of NASW membership status) and other stakeholders. Anyone may submit a comment without logging into or creating an NASW account. Read the draft standards and submit your feedback through July 26.

These revised standards, prepared by a volunteer task force of NASW members in collaboration with NASW staff, address long-term services and supports (LTSS) provided by social workers to people of all ages in home- and community-based settings and in facilities. When finalized, the standards will replace the 2003 NASW Standards for Social Work Services in Long-Term Care Facilities. Read the manuscript and provide your feedback by July 12.

As we each consider how to celebrate Older Americans Month in our workplace and community, we can keep in mind the OAM 2026 theme, Champion Your Health. Yes, each of us can play an active role in managing our own health as we age by engaging in prevention, informed decision making, and self-advocacy. At the same time, strong public systems and policies that promote equity, affordability, access, self-determination, and full participation in society are essential to experience health and well-being in later life.

NASW Task Force for Social Workers’ Safety in the Workplace is pleased to announce the attached draft practice standards for public comment by April 25, 2026. The draft standards offer guidance to social workers on essential, helpful provisions for social workers to feel secure when carrying out their social work duties in any setting or environment. We value your input and encourage you to review the document by clicking Here.

Please use the comment section to provide your feedback no later than April 25, 2026. We kindly request that you include your professional background with your comments. Thank you.

Submit your comment.

During 2025 NASW continued its work to enhance and promote social work with and on behalf of older adults, as well as to maximize the well-being of all of us as we age. Read this summary of NASW’s key aging-focused activities and find information to inform your practice in 2026.