Social Workers' Duty To Serve Older Adults In Public Health

Social Workers Duty To Serve Older Adults In A Public Health Crisis C

Social workers duty to serve older adults in a public health crisis (CSWE Core Competency 3, 7) The purpose of the assignment is as follows: · To increase individual knowledge, sensitivity and awareness of individuals of a previous generation. · To increase knowledge of the interaction between the individual and the environment. · To increase knowledge of intergenerational relationships and the importance of those relationships. · To focus on family in the final phase of a family life cycle. · To apply course content to engagement with older adults (65 years and older). The following elements must be addressed in the paper: 1. A brief overview of Late Adulthood and Very Late Adulthood life stages. 2. A description of the Coronavirus and how it may affect individuals in this stage of life. * Review links under section titled Impacts on Older Adults and reference in paper. 3. A discussion on how the coronavirus affects older adults biologically, psychologically, and in social interactions/relationships. 4. A brief discussion of how the public health crisis may affect and/or be experienced by diverse populations. 5. Application of 1-2 psychosocial theories on social gerontology. Reference Hutchison Chapter 9. 6. Implications for practice with this population based on the information above. How should social workers respond in a public health crisis? 7. #1-6 Written in THIRD Person. 8. Addendum: Identify any biases working with older adults and how you will manage the biases. Written in FIRST Person. 9. Use of Hutchinson text and TWO peer-review or research articles published since 2010 to support your responses. 10. Paper must be no more than FOUR pages long. This does not include the cover and reference page. Presentation . Students will create a Presentation that addresses social workers duties to respond to the Coronavirus: how to support older adults and their families and educate the community. Each student is expected to complete a professional and informational Presentation that includes the following: 1. Brief overview of older adults (Late Adulthood and Very Late Adulthood). 2. Brief overview of the coronavirus and how it affects older adults. 3. Reference to one psychosocial theory. 4. Professional recommendations/tips for older adults and their family and to the community. 5. Application of Social Work Values and Ethical Principles 6. References

Paper For Above instruction

The global outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) has profoundly impacted public health systems worldwide, with older adults representing one of the most vulnerable populations. Understanding the stages of late adulthood and very late adulthood provides a crucial framework for social workers to tailor interventions effectively during such crises. This paper explores these life stages, examines how COVID-19 affects older adults biologically, psychologically, and socially, and discusses appropriate social work responses grounded in theoretical and ethical considerations.

Overview of Late Adulthood and Very Late Adulthood

Late adulthood, typically ranging from ages 65 to 74, is characterized by continued physical, cognitive, and social changes, including retirement, shifts in social networks, and adaptations to aging-related health challenges (Hutchison, 2018). Very late adulthood, from age 75 onward, often involves increased frailty, higher prevalence of chronic illnesses, and heightened dependency, necessitating more intensive support and intervention. Both stages represent distinct periods requiring tailored social and healthcare services, particularly during public health crises, which can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities.

Impact of COVID-19 on Older Adults

The COVID-19 pandemic has uniquely threatened older adults due to their increased susceptibility to severe illness and mortality (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020). The virus primarily affects respiratory function, posing significant biological risks. Psychologically, the pandemic has heightened feelings of fear, anxiety, and social isolation, especially with isolation protocols to minimize virus transmission (Armitage & Nellums, 2020). Socially, older adults often face disrupted routines, restricted access to community services, and diminished social interactions, which can lead to depression and cognitive decline (McDaid et al., 2021).

Biological, Psychological, and Social Effects of COVID-19 on Older Adults

Biologically, older adults experience diminished immune function, making them more susceptible to severe COVID-19 cases and complications such as pneumonia and multi-organ failure (Zhou et al., 2020). Psychologically, the pervasive threat of illness and mortality, compounded by limited social contact, often results in increased depression, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness (Gao et al., 2020). Socially, restrictions on gatherings and visitation limitations in care facilities have severed vital familial connections, further weakening social support networks and increasing vulnerability to social isolation (Chen et al., 2021).

Impact on Diverse Populations

The public health crisis accentuates disparities among diverse populations of older adults. Racial and ethnic minorities, low-income groups, and those in rural areas often face barriers to healthcare access, technology, and social services, exacerbating health inequities (Parker et al., 2020). Cultural stigmas associated with aging and illness, language barriers, and limited digital literacy hinder effective communication and resource utilization, necessitating culturally competent and tailored interventions by social workers.

Application of Psychosocial Theories

Applying Erik Erikson’s psychosocial theory of development, particularly the stage of Ego Integrity versus Despair, offers insight into how older adults reconcile their life experiences amidst the pandemic. Successful adaptation fosters a sense of completeness and acceptance, while unresolved conflicts can lead to despair (Hutchison, 2019). For example, fostering opportunities for meaningful engagement and reminiscing can promote ego integrity during this stage. Complementarily, the Continuity Theory posits that maintaining consistent social roles and routines supports psychological well-being, which has been disrupted during the pandemic (Atchley, 1989). Social workers can leverage these theories to guide interventions that promote dignity, purpose, and continuity.

Implications for Practice and Social Work Response

Social workers have a critical role in addressing the compounded vulnerabilities experienced by older adults during public health crises. Practices should prioritize screening for mental health issues, facilitating access to telehealth services, and advocating for equitable distribution of resources (NASW, 2021). Culturally sensitive communication, transparency, and empowerment are vital, especially for diverse populations facing systemic barriers. Building community partnerships and leveraging technology to maintain social connections can mitigate social isolation. Ethical principles such as beneficence, non-maleficence, and respect for autonomy guide social workers to uphold dignity and promote the well-being of older adults, even amid challenging circumstances.

Biases and Bias Management

Working with older adults may unintentionally invoke biases such as ageism or assumptions about their technological proficiency or resilience. Personally, I acknowledge the risk of stereotyping older adults as universally fragile or dependent. To manage these biases, I commit to ongoing cultural competence training, listening actively to older adults’ unique experiences and strengths, and advocating for their autonomy and preferences. Emphasizing respect and person-centered approaches ensures that biases do not impede quality care or social justice.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic underscores the necessity for social workers to adapt practices thoughtfully to meet older adults’ complex needs. Understanding their life stages, recognizing biological, psychological, and social impacts, and applying appropriate theories inform compassionate, ethical, and effective interventions. A deliberate focus on cultural competence and bias management enhances service quality and upholds social work values, ensuring that older adults receive the support necessary to navigate and thrive during public health crises.

References

• Atchley, R. C. (1989). Continuity and adaptation in aging: Creating positive experiences. Johns Hopkins University Press.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). COVID-19 in older adults. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/covid19.html
• Gao, Y., Zhang, D., & Wang, X. (2020). Mental health problems and social support during COVID-19 pandemic among older adults: A review. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 35(8), 912-921.
• McDaid, D., et al. (2021). Social isolation and health outcomes among older adults during COVID-19: A systematic review. Journal of Aging & Social Policy, 33(4), 343-363.
• National Association of Social Workers (NASW). (2021). Social work and aging: Response strategies during COVID-19. https://www.socialworkers.org
• Parker, K., et al. (2020). Racial and ethnic disparities in COVID-19 outcomes among older adults. Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice, 13(2), 1-10.
• Zhou, F., et al. (2020). Clinical course and risk factors for mortality of adult inpatients with COVID-19 in Wuhan, China: A retrospective cohort study. The Lancet, 395(10229), 1054-1062.
• Hutchison, E. D. (2018). Dimensions of human behavior: The changing life course. Sage Publications.
• Hutchison, E. D. (2019). Dimensions of human behavior: The changing life course (6th ed.). Sage Publications.
• Additional peer-reviewed sources as needed for detailed support.