DSW Showcase Student Presentation

LaShanda Neal

BS, MSW, LMSW, DSW Candidate

From Systematic Insights to Social Work Practice: Addressing Healthcare Barriers and Mental Health Impacts for Marginalized Older Adults.

Concentration - Clinical Social Work

Abstract

Marginalized older adults often experience significant mental and physical health consequences due to delays in accessing healthcare resources. This presentation examines how limited access to and affordability of healthcare impacts older marginalized adults’ mental health, highlighting the interconnected barriers these individuals face. This analysis synthesizes findings from a systematic literature review, identifies existing research gaps, and analyzes theoretical frameworks that explain healthcare inequities affecting this population. Innovative strategies to address these challenges will be explored, with a focus on identifying and meeting the healthcare and mental health needs of marginalized older adults. Key interventions include the implementation of Comprehensive Geriatric Assessments (CGA), which fully evaluate medical, psychosocial, and functional capacities. These assessments will be accompanied by intensive community outreach initiatives to engage older adults who may otherwise remain underserved. This presentation will also emphasize the importance of educational training for interdisciplinary teams within healthcare settings, ensuring that professionals can deliver equitable and socially responsive care. In addition, it will advocate for strengthening existing policy initiatives to improve healthcare access and affordability for older adults. By integrating research, theory, and practice, this presentation seeks to provide social work practitioners with strategies to address healthcare disparities and mental health challenges among marginalized older adults while fostering systemic change.

Biography

LaShanda Neal, LMSW, is a compassionate and committed Licensed Master Social Worker with over 20 years of experience providing high-quality, client-focused care in various healthcare environments. In her current position as a Mental Health Professional II at Medical City McKinney, she leads psychoeducational groups, develops treatment plans, and collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to deliver holistic mental health services. Her work emphasizes empathy, patient advocacy, and comprehensive care strategies.
LaShanda is a doctoral candidate at the University of Kentucky pursuing a Doctor of Social Work (DSW). Her capstone project focuses on improving mental health outcomes for marginalized older adults facing significant barriers to accessing affordable healthcare. Her research is driven by her commitment to addressing health disparities and ensuring equitable access to mental health services. Through this work, she aims to develop innovative strategies that enhance the mental well-being of older marginalized populations.

She holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Indiana University-Northwest and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Sociology from Ball State University. Her experience includes psychosocial assessments, patient advocacy, and interdisciplinary collaboration, primarily focusing on diverse and vulnerable patient populations. Her expertise in addressing the social determinants of health has been crucial in creating effective, individualized care plans. LaShanda is a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Phi Alpha National Honor Society of Social Workers, and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.