ABSTRACT
The development of nursing home special care units for Alzheimer's Disease is linked to the political emergence of the disease in the past two decades. This article will explore the response of the nursing home industry to Alzheimer's Disease in the way of special care programs. Similarities and differences between the demented population and other groups served in nursing homes will be highlighted. Issues to be addressed before special care programs are developed for other populations will be suggested.
Subject(s)
Alzheimer Disease/nursing , Nursing Homes/organization & administration , Organizational Policy , Aged , Awareness , Certification , Facility Regulation and Control , Health Facility Environment , Health Policy , Humans , Nursing Homes/legislation & jurisprudence , Program Development , Public Relations , United StatesABSTRACT
The uncertain nature and erratic course of chronic illnesses pose unique challenges for those diagnosed. To help the growing numbers of nongeriatric adults clients with chronic illness, social workers are obliged to develop a substantial awareness surrounding the topic. An assessment of each client's developmental needs and an understanding of how that individual copes with emotional loss are critical to providing psychosocial assistance most effectively. This article surveys the current professional literature regarding adjustment to chronic illness and addresses its significance and implications for social workers.
Subject(s)
Adaptation, Psychological , Chronic Disease/psychology , Sick Role , Adult , Humans , Patient Care Team , Social WorkABSTRACT
Social work research has long been an area overlooked by direct practice clinicians for several reasons. Some clinicians are uncomfortable with research and tend to avoid it, while others feel they do not have time to generate quality research material and still serve clients adequately. The Social Work Services Department in a university teaching hospital accepted the challenge of combining direct practice and research. By drawing on internal levels of expertise, while collaborating with other area professionals, the Research Committee has adopted a group approach of individuals conducting practice-based research. This method of generating research has yielded many positive results.
