Los Angeles Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department. Note: This county is part of the Coordinated Care Initiative (CCI). Long-Term Care Ombudsman. Medicare Counseling (HICAP) ... Senior Employment Training (SCSEP) ... Legal Services. Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC)
Assuming you are in the USA, you can call your local County Social Service office and ask for Adult Protective Services. At the very least, they should allow you to explain why you believe the senior needs a social worker, and if the referral meets their criteria, one will be assigned.
Avenues that lead to finding the right geriatric social worker include looking up the state board of social workers. Families might also consult the elderly parent's doctor for recommendations of qualified geriatric social workers. Similarly, other care providers can direct them to the right professionals.
If you become concerned, go over and knock on the door. Listen and offer your support. Get help from Adult Protective Services if you are concerned an adult may be self-neglecting. Call 911 if the person needs immediate medical attention or is in danger of immediate harm.
No one should have to face the challenges of aging alone. Without proper support, elderly individuals are at greater risk of physical and mental health decline, financial exploitation, and a diminished quality of life.
Social workers can play a critical role in home healthcare, helping people solve and cope with problems in their everyday lives. When it comes to aging, social workers can help manage medications, assist with activities of daily living, and identify resources that might benefit your loved one.
Since 1950, the National Council on Aging (NCOA) has been the national voice for older adults. We helped end mandatory retirement. We advocated to secure Medicare, Medicaid, and the Older Americans Act. Local organizations turned to us for support as they served older adults every day.
Reach out locally Keep them from feeling isolated by going for a visit, bringing over a meal to share or renting their favorite movie for you to watch together. Offer to run errands for those seniors who can no longer drive. Make it a weekly ritual, and let them know they can call upon you when needed.
NCOA is your partner to improve the lives of older adults. We work with corporate partners and foundations to educate nationally and activate locally, so we all can live with dignity and independence.