As our loved ones grow older, it’s natural to want to show them love and support. However, as their needs change, it can be a good idea to consider bringing in additional help. A social worker for seniors usually works with individuals and their families to help support the various social, emotional, and health challenges that often come with aging.
In this article, we’ll discuss the important role of social workers in seniors’ lives and when to consider this option for someone you love.
Why Do Social Workers Matter for Older Adults?
America’s 65-and-over population is projected to nearly double over the next three decades — from 48 million to 88 million by 2050. This can be due to several important factors, including reduced birth rates and seniors living longer than ever. And since it’s normal for our health and lifestyle needs to change as we age; a growing number of older adults and caregivers will need some guidance and support to help them navigate the complexities of aging.
Social workers for seniors are trained professionals who provide a range of important support services to help enhance the overall well-being and quality of life for seniors and their families.
What Do Social Workers Do for Seniors?
Whether you’re considering additional help for yourself or someone you love, you might be wondering what social workers can do for the elderly. Let’s take a closer look:
- Personal Care: Some natural limitations of aging can make it challenging for older adults to manage activities of daily living (ADLs), like eating, bathing, or using the bathroom on their own. Social workers have the necessary skills and training to assess these needs and connect families with caregivers or home health aides to help seniors receive the appropriate support for their specific circumstances.
- Health Care: Social workers can also help seniors and their families manage various health changes that may accompany aging. This can include finding affordable health care services, coordinating with medical professionals, providing transportation to doctor’s appointments, and advocating for treatment options.
- Financial Assistance: Some older adults may need help covering the costs of health care or long-term care. Social workers can help them find and apply for financial assistance programs they may qualify for. They may also offer assistance with personal finances, like creating a budget or managing bills.
- Housing: As a person’s needs change, their family may need to explore different living options. This can be a difficult and emotional time for everyone involved. If you’re considering your or your family member’s living situation, a social worker can help recommend some suitable options in your area.
- Legal Services: Some older adults may have trouble clearly communicating their wishes or making decisions on their own. Social workers can work with legal professionals to help ensure an individual’s wishes and preferences are understood and respected. They may help older adults with matters like establishing a will, creating power of attorney, and setting up health care directives.
- Emotional Support: Sometimes, aging may present hurdles that can be frustrating for both seniors and their families. A geriatric social worker can provide counseling services and develop strategies to help individuals and their families cope with difficult situations, including unexpected changes in health, transitioning to a senior living community, or grieving the loss of a loved one.
- Education: There are many resources and opportunities designed specifically for seniors. Some older adults, especially those living alone, may need more guidance on how to access these benefits. In cases like these, a social worker for seniors can help them learn about and access the local resources available to them.
Benefits of Social Workers for Seniors
Social workers play a crucial role in helping seniors live healthy and comfortable lives in their later years. Here are some notable ways an older adult might benefit from a geriatric social worker:
- Enhanced Independence: Most seniors value their independence, even in their later years. Social workers may provide assistive devices, help with necessary home modifications, and connect older adults with the appropriate support services to help them maintain their independence for as long as possible.
- Better Quality of Life: The ups and downs of aging can be hard for some seniors to manage alone. Social services can offer support with important aspects of life, such as health, finances, and housing, to help older adults live happier, healthier lives.
- Improved Health Care Access: It’s normal for older adults to experience health changes in their later years. Social workers can help seniors cope with these challenges in many ways, including providing transportation to appointments, coordinating support with medical professionals, or simply ensuring an individual’s medical wishes are honored.
- Social Support: Many seniors, especially those who live alone, may experience feelings of loneliness and isolation. Social workers can help seniors combat these feelings by introducing them to social groups where they can meet new friends, engaging them in activities they enjoy, or even just stopping by for a chat.
Potential Drawbacks of Social Workers
While social services offer a range of great benefits for many older adults, they may not be a great fit for everyone. Let’s take a look at some potential drawbacks to keep in mind:
- Fear of Losing Independence: The thought of losing one’s independence can be unsettling for many seniors. Sometimes, older adults may feel that having a social worker involved is a threat to their independence or ability to make their own decisions.
- Geographic Limitations: One challenge some seniors may face is that social workers aren’t always available in every area. Rural or underserved areas tend to have fewer social workers, making it difficult for some seniors to receive the help they need.
- Limited Resources: In some cases, social workers working with the elderly may not have access to the full range of resources needed to support an individual. This can be due to several factors, like long waitlists or budget limitations.
- Difficulty Building Trust: Some seniors may feel unsure about trusting a social worker at first, especially if they’ve never worked with one before or have had a bad experience in the past.
- High Caseloads: Sometimes, social workers may have to help many individuals or families within a limited period of time, which can lead to delays in service or a feeling of being rushed.
When Should You Consider a Social Worker for Your Senior Loved One?
Social services can help make a significant difference in the lives of seniors and their families. However, it’s not always clear when it’s the right time to seek out extra help for your aging loved one.
Here are some situations in which a geriatric social worker may be helpful:
- You Live Far Away: Some older adults may need ongoing assistance to live safely and comfortably on their own. If you don’t live near your aging loved one, a social worker can be a valuable point of contact to help ensure their needs are being met.
- Caregiver Burnout: While supporting an aging parent can be fulfilling, the day-to-day demands of caregiving can become stressful and overwhelming. Depending on your specific needs and situation, a social worker may connect you with the right support, like respite care or adult daycare services.
- Social Isolation and Loneliness: Seniors who spend a lot of time alone may be at greater risk of feeling isolated or lonely. In these cases, a social worker for seniors can help guide them toward local programs or groups where they can socialize with others.
- Declining Independence: It’s not always easy to recognize when an older adult needs help. But if activities of daily living (ADLs) are becoming harder for your loved one to manage on their own, a social worker can help you locate in-home support or other services to help them live independently.
- During Unexpected Life Changes: Sudden changes, like a serious health issue or the loss of a spouse, can be deeply unsettling for seniors. A social worker can help provide the necessary counseling and support to help them adjust.
Steps on How to Get a Social Worker
Even though social workers offer invaluable support to older adults, some individuals and families may not know how to locate and access their services. If you’re unsure about how to get a social worker for yourself or a senior you love, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Identify the Person’s Specific Needs: First, start by carefully assessing your or your family member’s needs. Having a clear understanding of their specific needs can help guide you to the appropriate support.
- Explore Potential Social Services: Once you have a clear picture of your or your loved one’s needs, check out available social services in your area. Nearby senior centers, hospitals, or your local Area Agency on Aging can be great places to ask for information.
- Make Initial Contact: Next, reach out to a few options that you think might be a good match. Let them know what kind of support you’re looking for, and ask how to get started.
- Initial Assessment: Oftentimes, a social worker for seniors will want to meet with you or your loved one to gain a deeper understanding of their situation. During the meeting, they might ask questions about your or your loved one’s health, daily routines, and more to figure out the best ways to help.
- Ongoing Support and Review: Lastly, it’s important to check in regularly to make sure everything is going well. If needed, you can work with the social worker to adjust your or your loved one’s care plan as required.
Alternatives to Social Workers
Aside from social workers, there are many other professionals who may help support seniors and their families. Here are a few alternatives worth checking out:
- Home Health Care: Some older adults may wish to stay in their homes for as long as possible. Under those circumstances, home support services can allow them to receive the assistance they need in the familiar surroundings of home.
- Case Managers: Case managers are usually available through hospitals or insurance providers and may help seniors and families develop a support plan, navigate available options, and even transition between different levels of support.
- Geriatric Care Managers: Also known as Aging Life Care Professionals, geriatric care managers specialize in helping older adults and their families manage various aspects of aging. They can assist with important tasks like assessing needs and coordinating support services.
- Senior Living Communities: If you’re struggling to effectively meet your loved one’s needs at home, they may benefit from a senior living community. Most communities offer a range of services, including healthy and delicious meals and snacks, transportation, housekeeping, and opportunities to connect with others.
If you’re exploring senior living options for yourself or a loved one, StoryPoint Group has community experts who can work with you to help you figure out the best option for your specific needs and circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions About Social Workers
When considering additional support for yourself or a loved one, it’s normal to have questions. Let’s take a look at some commonly asked questions about geriatric social workers:
Life With StoryPoint Group Communities
At StoryPoint Group communities, we truly understand the unique challenges seniors and families go through during their senior living search. That’s why we take time to understand each person’s unique needs so we can provide the best possible support.
To learn more about what it’s like to live with us, contact us today or give us a call at 1-844-275-9990. We can’t wait to get to know you!
