Interdisciplinary Perspectives, Service Learning, and Advocacy: A Nontraditional Approach to Geriatric Rehabilitation

In a unique service learning model and collaborative partnership between academia and the community, graduate rehabilitation students were introduced to formerly homeless older adults and other underserved urban populations to teach the students about interdisciplinary collaboration, service, and advocacy issues and social responsibility. Students received practical experience in health promotion, senior fitness, and primary prevention education for older adults while providing pro bono services to inner-city community dwellers, their caregivers, and supporting agencies. Interdisciplinary perspectives among health care providers, a model of service learning in a rehabilitation curriculum, and awareness of social and political issues such as the lack of affordable housing with resultant growth in elder homelessness are presented. The need for social reform through grassroots and pro bono efforts by professionals of all disciplines is emphasized. In addition, demographics of elder homelessness, relevant social programs, current research, as well as the nontraditional roles of rehabilitation specialists and the challenges encountered in both academic and community sectors are explored.