Partnerships and collaboration between legal and aging services programs are key to providing holistic and effective services to older adults with the greatest social and economic need. Legal issues such as elder abuse,housing, debt, and healthcare are often best addressed by a combination of legal and non-legal interventions.
Many successful programs incorporate a variety of disciplines and partners, including lawyers, social workers, case managers, medical providers, insurance counselors, ombudsman, and more. Additionally, partnerships help extend the reach of individual programs, particularly when resources are limited for one or both partners. In rural settings or in programs with large service areas, having connected services makes the difference of being able to meet more of the community’s needs.
Resources
- Legal Assistance & the Aging Services Network: Strengthening Partnerships and Communication
- Building Capacity and Partnerships to Address Housing Issues for Older Adults