Saint Louis University

The goal of the Aging in St. Louis (ASL) Project was to provide sophomore and junior BSW students with organized opportunities for direct interaction with older adults. This was accomplished by having students enrolled in two BSW Program social work courses conduct resource needs assessment interviews with two different groups of older adults. The first interviews involved older adults who received meal deliveries from the Saint Louis University Campus Kitchens Project. The second group of older adults lived in the Northside Community Center senior living facility. Each student conducted one interview and observed one interview conducted by other students. This format allowed students the opportunity to establish rapport with older adults and to improve their listening and interviewing skills. Introducing students to older adults early in their academic career, resulted in more students gaining a commitment to a career in gerontological social work practice.

Courses that Included Experiential Activity:

• Practice with Organizations

Gero Practice Behaviors:

• Assess and address values and biases regarding aging.
• Use empathy and sensitive interviewing skills to engage older clients in identifying their strengths and problems.
• Establish rapport and maintain an effective working relationship with older adults and family members.