Older People and Their Caregivers Across the Spectrum of Care

Book excerpt: Examine recently developed concepts and strategies to help social workers and caregivers improve the quality of care for senior citizens! Older People and Their Caregivers Across the Spectrum of Care focuses on two major aspects of elderly care: assessment and caregiving. This book examines assessment techniques and models used by social workers and other health care professionals to determine the type and extent of care necessary to meet the needs of the elderly. In addition, it voices recent concerns about the use of standardized models for all older adults. This book also addresses the burdens and benefits of being a caregiver to older relatives or friends and mentions several programs made available for caregivers through social services. Older People and Their Caregivers Across the Spectrum of Care reviews assessment techniques and practice models that address issues such as abuse and HIV/AIDS care. This book also provides information about currently overlooked issues that will increasingly affect assessment and intervention, including diversity in cultural or religious beliefs and sexual orientation. This book is also unique in its focus on those unsung, unpaid heroes—relatives and friends—who assist elderly companions with their financial, social, and physical daily needs. With Older People and Their Caregivers Across the Spectrum of Care you’ll find vital information on: two elderly victims’ services, one involving social services and the other involving criminal action the challenges of assessing older adults with HIV/AIDS the pros and cons of long-distance caregiving a life course assessment intervention model used at military colleges to help officers prepare proactively for parent care the Caregivers and Professionals Partnership (CAPP), which employs innovative outreach strategies to family caregivers of adults the Northport VA Friendly Companion Program, which enhances opportunities for interpersonal interaction African-American caregivers and their experiences with African-American elders Social workers and caregivers will find the information in this book vital in their work. Generously enhanced with tables, charts, case studies, references, and personal vignettes, Older People and Their Caregivers Across the Spectrum of Care will help you improve quality of life for the older adults of today—and tomorrow.