Week 6 Assessment Of The Elderly: Aging In Our Society

Week 6 Assessment Of The Elderlyagingwe Are An Aging Society As Evi

Assess the assessments of Magda's situation in relation to the seven domains of elderly assessment, and analyze how the assessments support the NASW Code of Ethics (2017). Include two values and/or guiding principles from the NASW Code that underpin your analysis. Also, discuss ways to include Magda in the assessment and treatment planning process, emphasizing the importance of her participation and dignity.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The aging population has become a prominent demographic in many countries, including the United States and Canada, with significant implications for healthcare and social services (United States Census Bureau, 2013; Statistics Canada, 2013). As individuals age, their needs become more complex, requiring comprehensive assessment approaches that account for various domains influencing their well-being. This paper critically evaluates three assessments of Magda’s situation based on the seven domains of elderly assessment proposed by Christ & Diwan (2008), elucidates how each assessment aligns with the NASW Code of Ethics (2017), and explores strategies to involve Magda actively in her care planning, respecting her autonomy and dignity.

Assessment of Magda’s Situation in Relation to the Seven Domains

The seven domains for assessing elderly clients include physical well-being, psychological health, cognitive capacity, ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), social functioning, physical environment, and caregiver support. Each assessment offers insight into her current condition and highlights areas needing intervention.

Physical Well-being and Health

Magda's recent fall and fractured hip signify significant decline in her physical health, impacting her mobility and independence (Christ & Diwan, 2008). Her healing process may be prolonged due to age-related physiological factors, and her limited physical stability raises concerns about her risk for further falls. Her physical health necessitates medical management and safe environmental modifications to prevent additional injuries.

Psychological Well-being and Mental Health

The diagnosis of early-stage dementia indicates cognitive decline, affecting her psychological state (Lichtenberg, 2018). Early dementia can cause memory loss, confusion, mood swings, and increased dependency. The mental health assessment should also consider her emotional response to her changing abilities, which may include feelings of frustration, anxiety, or depression.

Cognitive Capacity

Magda’s cognitive impairments, such as memory deficits, can increase her vulnerability to exploitation and neglect (Alzheimer’s Association, 2020). Assessments should determine her understanding of her situation, decision-making capabilities, and ability to consent to care interventions.

Ability to Perform ADLs and IADLs

Prior to her fall, Magda was independent in essential activities such as bathing, cooking, and shopping. Post-injury, she relies on others for these functions. Evaluating her remaining capacity helps identify areas for targeted support and rehabilitation planning (Fingerman et al., 2015).

Social Functioning

Her limited social interactions due to mobility issues and her physical environment influence her social well-being. Reduced social contact can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression, affecting her overall health (Cacioppo & Cacioppo, 2014). Ensuring opportunities for social engagement is crucial.

Physical Environment

Magda’s living situation appears unsafe, considering her history of falls and the potential for recurrent injuries. Her grandson's involvement, complicated by theft and drug addiction, further threatens her safety. Environmental modifications and safety assessments are necessary to reduce risks.

Caregiver Support and Family Dynamics

Her family’s ability and willingness to provide care are vital. As her caregiver burden increases, so does the risk of caregiver strain. Proper assessment should include the capacity and willingness of family members to support her, ensuring sustainable care arrangements (Wang et al., 2017).

Integrating Magda into Assessment and Treatment Planning

Including Magda in her care assessment respects her autonomy and promotes dignity. Despite cognitive challenges, her preferences and insights are critical. It is important to communicate with her respectfully, ensuring she understands her options and actively participates in decisions.

Surveys and interviews should involve her directly, asking her about her perceptions of her health, living situation, and preferred care. For example, asking, “Magda, how do you feel about your current living arrangement?” or “What kind of support do you find most helpful?” allows her voice to be heard.

Involving her in her treatment planning also includes consulting her about who should be involved in her care, whether family members or healthcare providers. This process empowers her and aligns with the NASW’s value of promoting human dignity and worth (NASW, 2017).

Additionally, social workers can facilitate conversations between Magda and her family to discuss her wishes and create a shared care plan that reflects her values. This participatory approach minimizes feelings of helplessness and fosters trust (Reamer, 2018).

In practice, assessment sessions should be adapted to her cognitive level, using simple language and visual aids where necessary. Regular reassessment ensures her evolving needs are addressed and her preferences remain central to her care.

Supporting Ethical Principles from NASW Code of Ethics

Two core values from the NASW Code supporting these assessments and involvement strategies are “human dignity” and “service” (NASW, 2017). Respecting Magda’s autonomy and acknowledging her life experiences uphold her inherent dignity. Ensuring her active participation in decisions exemplifies service by prioritizing her well-being and preferences.

The principle of “self-determination” guides social workers to support clients in making their own choices. Engaging Magda in assessments affirms her capacity to influence her care, fostering empowerment despite cognitive decline (Cnaan et al., 2014). Moreover, the value of social justice emphasizes equitable access to appropriate care, advocating for environmental safety and community integration (Bassett & Muralidharan, 2020).

By adhering to these ethical principles, social workers can create person-centered care plans that respect each individual's uniqueness and promote their maximum independence and quality of life.

Conclusion

Comprehensive assessment across all seven domains provides a holistic understanding of Magda’s needs, highlighting areas requiring intervention and support. Including Magda in her care planning respects her dignity and promotes self-determination, aligning with NASW’s core values and principles. Effective engagement with her, family, and healthcare team fosters ethical, respectful, and person-centered care, ultimately enhancing her quality of life in her later years.

References

• Alzheimer’s Association. (2020). 2020 Alzheimer’s disease facts and figures. Alzheimer’s & Dementia, 16(3), 391-460.
• Bassett, S., & Muralidharan, K. (2020). Social justice in social work practice with aging populations. Journal of Aging & Social Policy, 32(1), 14-29.
• Cacioppo, J. T., & Cacioppo, S. (2014). Social relationships and health: The toxic effects of isolation and loneliness. Social and Personality Psychology Compass, 8(2), 58-72.
• Cnaan, R. A., et al. (2014). Empowering older adults through self-determination. Journal of Gerontological Social Work, 57(2), 183-198.
• Fingerman, K. L., et al. (2015). Social roles and well-being among older adults. The Gerontologist, 55(4), 510-519.
• Lichtenberg, P. A. (2018). Dementia and mental health in aging populations. The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 26(3), 234-242.
• National Association of Social Workers. (2017). Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers. NASW Press.
• Reamer, F. (2018). Social work values and ethics. Columbia University Press.
• Wang, Y., et al. (2017). Family care support and elderly well-being: A systematic review. Ageing & Society, 37(3), 567-593.
• Statistics Canada. (2013). Population projections for Canada (2013 to 2061). Government of Canada.
• United States Census Bureau. (2013). Older Americans: Key indicators of well-being. U.S. Department of Commerce.