About Social Services Employment Working With the Elderly

There are many employment opportunities for working with the elderly through social services. Social service workers help the elderly understand the aging process and assist them in their areas of need. This field of employment is rapidly growing as awareness of the elderly and their needs is on the rise.

Living Environment

Social service workers help the elderly within their living environment. This means helping them in facilities designed specifically for seniors, such as skilled nursing homes or assisted-living establishments. Home health care is another avenue of employment. Social service workers go into the senior's home and aid them in finding the appropriate help from the right sources to continue to live at home. 

Intervention

Many geriatric social workers play a part in intervention. This can range from suspected elder abuse to having to relocate from their home for more advanced care. Their major priority is to prevent the elderly from being in a potentially harmful environment. Social service workers will go over the options available for the senior to consider. Many times, the elderly are unaware of what is available to them in regards to help. Geriatric social workers present them with options and help with the necessary paperwork and transition from one situation to a better one.

Programs

From disability benefits to housing assistance, there are programs to assist the elderly. Social service workers are trained to know the different programs available to seniors. They assess the needs of the senior involved and make recommendations for specific programs. Many times, the geriatric worker will get the forms required, help the senior fill them out and get them sent to the appropriate agency.