FACULTY STUDENTS AND POLICY MAKERS WORKING TO IMPROVE THE LIVES OF OLDER PEOPLE

摘要

This study reports on a special course for under graduate social work students working with local policy makers who are responsible for designing, implementing and evaluating the senior policy for the city of Crakow. The aim was for students and policy makers to explore ways in which older people could be more actively engaged in the city. A secondary aim was to encourage students to develop a deep understanding of the needs of older people. This project has been in operation for three years, with 20 social work students visiting the senior centers at least three times a year. Each group has developed a different study on active engagement, for example: a recognition and introduction phase; talking with older people and staff in the centres what is required; undertaking activities with the older people. The results were shared with policy makers to improve the organization of city seniors’ activity centers.