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Gerontology
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Gerontology
What are some of the seniors’ support system(s)?
A senior's support systems include the people they live with and friends. Family members
understand the needs of senior citizens because they usually spend more time with them than
anybody else. Furthermore, friends are able to interact with older people, thus ensuring they don't
feel depressed as a result of isolation (McInnis-Dittrich, 2014). Health professionals who have
attended to the seniors for a long time understand their health needs and can help the social
worker deliver high-quality care. Finally, the community can provide support to the senior
citizen through programs such as community centers and volunteer work.
Who is your support system while caring for your older adults?
When attending to older adults, I rely on their families because they are the people who
are immediately available to the person. Furthermore, caregivers are important when dealing
with seniors who don't have immediate family members. Family members such as spouses can
support each other emotionally and provide essential care when needed. As a social worker, I can
rely on the caregiver for important information, such as the senior's health progress and needs.
Finally, healthcare professionals play an important role in case a senior citizen requires
immediate medical attention. Therefore, I maintain a close relationship with the senior citizen's
primary caregiver because healthcare is among the most essential needs of an older person.
What is the most challenging feeling for someone who is ageing?
The most challenging feeling for older adults is the fear of losing their independence
because of deteriorating health and mobility. McInnis-Dittrich (2014) points out that living in a
nursing home is one of older adults’ greatest fears. Living at a nursing home means that older
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people have to abandon some essential parts of their lives, such as interacting with their friends
and families. Because they spend a large of their lives caring for themselves, they might struggle
with the idea of relying on other people for basic things such as feeding. Therefore, social
workers should provide the needed support and education to help seniors cope with their
situation.
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References
McInnis-Dittrich, K. (2014). Social Work with Older Adults. Pearson College Division.
