How to Become a Geriatric Social Worker

Social workers provide interventions that improve quality of life.

Social workers are professionals who work with clients of all ages and assist them with life issues and circumstances. They work in many settings including hospitals, schools, homes and outpatient clinics. Some social workers choose to specialize their services to a particular population. Geriatric social workers focus on aging clients and issues specific to this group of people. There are several steps that must be followed to become a geriatric social worker.

Instructions

1. Obtain a degree in social work. A bachelor's degree in social work or related field like psychology or sociology is the minimum requirement for most entry-level jobs in this field. A graduate degree is typically required for social work jobs in health care and school facilities. Complete internships in settings that serve the geriatric population, like nursing homes and local offices for the aging.

2. Contact the state board of social work for the state in which you wish to be employed. State licensure, certification or registration is required before you can be employed as a professional in the field. Many states require a specific amount of time or practice hours under a licensed social worker before this can be obtained. Complete this requirement in a geriatric facility to gain work experience with this clientele.

3. Pursue employment opportunities that serve the geriatric population. Social workers are employed in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities to support residents and family members through living environment transitions and decision making. Social workers also work for adult protective services, protecting the elderly who are cared for in their homes or homes of family members. Complete continuing education coursework to advance your knowledge and clinical skills in your geriatric specialty.

4. Work toward an advanced academic degree or certificate program specific to your interests in the geriatric population to advance your professional career. Market your services to geriatricians and other healthcare providers with elderly patients to increase your referral base. Contact the office manager at local geriatric physicians' offices and schedule a meeting to discuss the services you have to offer their patients. Contact community centers and ask if you can leave promotional materials for their clients to read that describe your services.

References

• Education-Portal.com: Be a Geriatric Social Worker: Step-by-Step Career Guide
• United States Department of Labor; Bureau of Labor Statistics; Social Workers
• Boston University School of Social Work; Institute for Geriatric Social Work
• Institute for Geriatric Social Work; Boston University School of Social Work; IGSW Workforce Solutions; Prepare for the Aging Boom