discussion

Week 6 

Assessment of the Elderly/Aging 

Resources 

Readings 

• Paveza, G. J. (2013). Assessment of the elderly. In M. J. Holosko, C. N. Dulmus, & K. M. Sowers (Eds.), Social work practice with individuals and families: Evidence-informed 

Assessment of the Elderly/Aging 

assessments and interventions (pp. 177–195). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley. 

• Åhsberg, E., Fahlström, G., Rönnbäck, E., Granberg, A., & Almborg, A. (2017). Development of an instrument for assessing elder care needs. Research On Social Work Practice, 27(3), 291-306.
   
• Christ, G., & Diwan, S. (2008). Chronic illness and aging: The role of social work in managing chronic illness care. Council on social work education. Retrieved
  from http://www.cswe.org/getattachment/Centers- Initiatives/CSWE-Gero-Ed-Center/Teaching-Tools/Gero- Competencies/Practice-Guides/Assignments-Measurments/CI- Sec2-Role-SW.pdf.aspx
   
• Harrington, A. (2016). The importance of spiritual assessment when caring for older adults. Ageing And Society, 36(1), 1-16.
   
• Plummer, S.-B., Makris, S., & Brocksen, S. M. (Eds.). (2014a). Sessions: Case histories. Baltimore, MD: Laureate International Universities Publishing. [Vital Source e-reader].
  o The Petrakis Family (pp. 20–22) Media
   
• Laureate Education (Producer). (2013c). Petrakis family: Episode 3 [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu
   

Discussion 1 

Self-Determination 

In the Christ & Diwan (2008) article, the authors list seven domains that social workers should address in order to fully assess an older client’s needs. Each domain is considered equally important. This comprehensive evaluation fits well with the social work perspective that it is important to not only address the internal concerns of clients but also their environment. Making decisions for older adults without their input occurs often. In society people sometimes treat their elders like children—making decisions for them based on what they think is best rather than from the client’s perspective. While at times this may be well intentioned, the potential for infantilism and, in turn, compromised self-determination, occurs.

For this Discussion, review the program case study for the Petrakis family. You will focus not on Helen, but on her mother-in-law, Magda. What decisions were made about Magda’s treatment without a formal assessment and/or her input? Consider how Christ & Diwan’s (2008) seven domains relate to Magda’s case. Complete an assessment for Magda and identify the choices that were made without her feedback.

 a summary of your assessment of Magda’s situation that addresses the seven domains. Fill in the gaps in content as necessary. Describe ways you would have included Magda in the original assessment and treatment plan. Include questions you would have asked Magda and her professional support system (doctors, nurses, etc.) to gain further insight into the situation. 

Support your posts with specific references to the Learning Resources. Be sure to provide full APA citations for your references.