AAA Practicum
One way to build linkages between clinical care and community-based resources is providing training for the workforce who will practice in primary care settings and ultimately care for America’s growing older adult population.
In collaboration with two Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) in Washington state, we offer an AAA-based practicum to connect the primary care workforce to community-based resources. This unique experience offers health profession trainees first-hand exposure to the Aging network.
Our AAA Partners
Aging & Disability Services (ADS) - Seattle / King County
The Area Agency on Aging for Seattle and King County. ADS plans, coordinates, and advocates for a comprehensive service delivery system for older adults, family caregivers and people with disabilities in King County.
Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of Southwest Washington
At the AAADSW, we believe every adult deserves to live with dignity. We connect seniors, adults with disabilities and family caregivers to a full range of free and other community resources designed to offer you choice, improve your quality of life and respect your independence.
Our Curriculum
Online self-paced learning
Trainees have access to online learning modules and resources that offer foundational information about the Aging network, Area Agencies on Aging, and evidence-based programs and services.
Experiential visits and activities
Our trainees have accompanied our case managers on home visits, shadowed our family caregiver specialists, worked alongside our care coordinators, and observed our Information and Assistance advocates.
Interactive classroom learning
Trainees supplement their online and experiential learning with group didactics and one-on-one discussions facilitated by AAA leaders.
Team-based Discussions
Trainees engage with AAA case managers, nurses, and caregiver specialists as they staff challenging cases.
Interested? Connect with one of our AAA Liaisons:
Melissa Ensey, MSEd
Representing the Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities of Southwest Washington (AAADSW) serving Clark, Cowlitz, Wahkiakum, Skamania, and Klickitat counties. Since 2011, Melissa has worked to support older adults in Southwest Washington as part of AAADSW. Melissa earned her BA in Communications from the University of Washington and went on to complete her Master of Science in Education in Community Counseling and Student Affairs Leadership and Practice at Youngstown State University. Melissa has a passion for programs and services that offer people the opportunity to be invested and empowered in their own health. She enjoys the challenge of connecting people to the right program to fit their needs.
Allison Boll, MSW
Representing Aging and Disability Services (ADS), the AAA for Seattle-King County. Allison’s brings over five years of experience serving older adults and their families in post-acute care, hospice, and community-based settings to her role as a Primary Care Liaison. Allison’s commitment to older adults stems from her time as a live-in caregiver for her Grandmother. She is passionate about coalition building and believes that partnerships, like that between ADS and NWGEC, will generate new opportunities and solutions for our community.
What’s one AAA resource you’ll now refer patients to?
“Caregiving Support Network and Training”
“Meals on Wheels”
“Medicaid Longterm Care”
“Medical Transport and Transportation”
For Trainees
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