Case of Elderly Couple Lydia and John
Case of Elderly Couple Lydia and John
Question 1
The theory of social structure and action would fit to explain to a supportive care team why Lydia and Johna required social support. People become deviant of the problems that people experience in the society. However, the social structures that have existed for a long time have taught people how they should treat the elderly (Cornwell et al., 2008), physically and cognitive ill individuals. Older adults are at a higher risk of social isolation due to their cognitive and physical status (Broderick, & Blewitt, 2015). According to Cornman et al. (2003), elderly individuals who experience social support have high self-esteem and sense of control. The individuals can live a positive life as compared to their counterparts who do not have access to social support. According to Kinney et al. (2005), social connectedness contributes significantly healthy behaviors among the older adults leading to better health outcomes. There has been a strong correlation between social isolation and mental problems among the older adults in the society.
The mental problems further put the elderly at the risk of other physical problems. Therefore, it is imperative to create a social network for the Lydia and Jonhna to ensure to reduce the level of isolation and health problems they are experiencing. Social isolation, physical and cognitive disabilities increase stress, decrease self-efficacy and health problems among the elderly persons (Broderick, & Blewitt, 2015). It is ill informed for John’s son to deny his parents the opportunity to be taken care by a social support network. The son has his problems that affect his ability to give quality assistance to his parents. Therefore, social support groups should intervene due to the cognitive and health conditions of the couple.
Question 2
Other than the health information, it is important to get information regarding the number of meals that John and Lydia take per day, the frequency and ability of cooking, ability to access health care services and the living conditions in their home. John and Lydia are in a frail health condition. The wife is more confused than the husband meaning they require immediate assistance. Their health condition is worse meaning that they cannot access the washrooms on the first floor of their home. They, therefore, live in a pathetic and hygienic condition that can complicate their health situation. It is also important to consider the financial status of the family. Information on financial status can assist in getting them the best social support.
Question 3
As a protective service worker, there are some options that I would look for these family. The first option would take them to a residential care home. In the residential care, they will receive quality services and health services. They will also enter a socially connected environment which will eliminate isolation. However, the couple will lose their home and other personal properties. The cost of living in residential care homes is also high, and it will have a significant impact on the financial resource of the couple. I would also opt to enhance adaptations to the couple’s home. I would assist the couple in moving the washing rooms from the first floor to the ground where they can easily access the rooms. I would also transfer the bed to the ground floor to enable John to sleep comfortably. I would also recommend the couple a home attendant to take care of their health condition and daily needs. The couple would continue living in their home, and the cost of services would be minimized. However, the quality of the services and feelings of loneliness would continue.
Question 4
I would recommend the couple the join a residential home care. At the residential home care, the health condition of the couple will be addressed adequately. There will be someone to give the couple timely assistance, and health problem they are experiencing would be dealt with effectively.
References
Broderick, P. C. & Blewitt, P. (2015). The life span: Human development for helping professionals (4th Edition) 4th Edition. New York, Pearson.
Cornman, J., Goldman, N., Glei, D., Weinstein, M., Ming-Cheng, C. (2003). Social ties and perceived support: Two dimensions of social relationships and health among the elderly in Taiwan. Journal of Aging and Health. 15. 616-644.
Cornwell, B., Laumann, E., Schuman, L. (2008). The social connectedness of elder adults. A national profile. American Sociological Review. 73: 185-203.
Kinney, A., Yeomans, L., Martin, C., Sandler, R. (2005). Social ties and colorectal cancer screening among blacks and whites in North Carolina. Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and prevention.14: 182-189.
