ABSTRACT
Much social work theorization about social work with older people concentrates on service provision and practical and emotional support of older people and their informal caregivers. This is sometimes detached from understanding about the changing political and social environment that affects the ageing process and the human lives of older people. Social attitudes, finance for services and the organization of service provision is often characterized by ageism: that is, prejudice and discrimination against a social group on grounds of age (Butler, 1969). But if social workers incorporate a co-production practice strategy favouring older people’s positive engagement, sharing in planning and organizing care and support services, many barriers to a good quality of life and end of life for older people can be overcome. In these ways, social work can contest devaluing and oppressive views about ageing and older people.
