Chronic Disease and Disability

Illness and disability are deeply intertwined with poverty, creating significant challenges for individuals and families, particularly those reliant on public assistance. Chronic conditions, often exacerbated by inadequate access to care and essential resources, have profound social and economic implications. Addressing the needs of individuals facing such conditions requires a holistic approach that considers not only medical treatment but also the environmental and social factors affecting their well-being. This guide serves as a practical resource for social workers, offering insights into the interplay between chronic illnesses and their social ramifications, and providing actionable advice to bridge the gap between medical care and social support.

Designed to enhance understanding and effectiveness in working with clients who have chronic conditions, the book focuses on the tangible ways social workers can assist in improving health outcomes. From budgeting for dietary needs to coordinating with healthcare providers, it underscores the critical role of social work in mitigating the challenges posed by chronic illness. Through concise chapters, it offers essential medical information alongside strategies for addressing the unique needs of individuals, empowering social workers to provide comprehensive support. This guide emphasizes the transformative impact of practical interventions, illustrating how even modest efforts can lead to significant improvements in clients’ quality of life.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1961.