Posted March 24, 2023 March is Social Work Month, and the 2023 theme is Social Work Breaks Barriers. More than 700,000 social workers nationwide entered the profession because they have a commitment to making our communities, our country, and our world a better place for all. During Social Work Month, NASW) is spearheading efforts to increase public awareness about how ... Read More »
The belief that dementia is a normal part of the aging process is familiar. But it is not true. “It is a common misconception in society that it is something we should all expect and something that happens to almost everybody,” says Natalia Shtompel, PhD, MSW. “But it’s not the case.” Dementia is not a normal part of aging, she ... Read More »
Posted April 22, 2022 On April 6, 2022, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) released a report entitled The National Imperative to Improve Nursing Home Quality: Honoring Our Commitment to Residents, Families, and Staff. The report represents the culmination of 18 months of work by a study committee that included NASW Social Work Pioneer® and Wisconsin Chapter ... Read More »
April 1, 2022 The federal government is soliciting proposals to fund various programs that prevent and address elder abuse. As noted in a recent NASW Practice Perspective, social workers are currently involved in similar grant-funded programs and play critical roles in elder justice. Details regarding each program and a brief resource list follow. Enhanced Training and Services to End Abuse ... Read More »
Posted January 28, 2022, and revised February 10, 2022 This post updates information provided in a Social Work Blog post of December 17, 2021. The January 28, 2022, post was revised on February 10, 2022, to reflect changes since publication. Following its November 12 release of guidance for nursing home visitation during the COVID-19 pandemic, CMS released three versions of ... Read More »
Posted December 17, 2021 The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on nursing home residents, families, and staff. Limitations on visits from family (as defined by each resident), other personal guests, and even certain service providers (such as hospice personnel and long-term care ombudsmen) have drastically exacerbated loneliness and social isolation among residents. Recognizing the physical and emotional toll ... Read More »
Posted November 12, 2021 Each fall, Medicare beneficiaries can review, compare, and change their coverage options during the Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP). The OEP, sometimes known as the annual election period, began on October 15 and ends on December 7. Changes made during the OEP affect coverage between January 1 and December 31, 2022. (The Medicare OEP is distinct ... Read More »
By Chris Herman, MSW, LICSW Senior Practice Associate–Aging, NASW The annual Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP) ends on December 7. Seeking tips on enrollment for your clients, family members, or yourself? This blog provides a brief overview and links to multiple resources. During the OEP, Medicare beneficiaries can review, compare, and switch their prescription drug (Part D) and ... Read More »
In case you missed it, here are some of the features in the December-January issue of Social Work Advocates. Top stories include: Aging in America: Staying Active and Involved is Key to Productive Aging Social work’s efforts to ensure that older Americans remain engaged can help those who are aging feel more vital and part of communities. This in turn can help ... Read More »
By Chris Herman, MSW, LICSW Senior Practice Associate–Aging, NASW May 11, 2018 NASW is celebrating Older Americans Month (OAM) in May. Established in 1963 and coordinated by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), OAM celebrates the role of older adults within our communities. The 2018 theme, Engage at Every Age, emphasizes that people of all ages can take part in ... Read More »
Social Work Blog Social work updates from NASW