Issues in Practicing Social Work with Adults: Dementia - Coursework Example

Issues in practicing social work with adults – dementia Issues in practicing social work with adults – dementia In the world today, social work, in all the descriptions of the term, has become a very vital business. Though working with adults having dementia has become exceedingly debatable, the success of the process entails total commitment from the social workers. Just like any other human being requires proper healthcare, the same case applies to the adults living with dementia. In this case, therefore, the social workers must always ensure that adults with dementia have a gratifying experience upon admission to dismissal. Dementia can simply be described as a syndrome that is characterized by memory loss and other cognitive abilities by the individuals (Innes, Kelly, Andrews & McCabe, 2012; pp. 18). With the numbers of patients living with the condition increasing by the day, it is projected that the concerned stakeholders will undertake an initiative of dealing with this condition. Worse still, analysts and researchers are of the opinion that this condition is likely to increase twofold by the year 2050. Having no cure for dementia at present, there is even more cause for alarm for the persons living with the condition. Despite the concerns, it is expected that the social care for these individuals be existent for the longest time, so as to handle the cases of dementia with immediate urgency. This paper shall focus on analyzing the theoretical approaches and models applied by the social workers and allied professionals whilst working with adults with dementia and their caregivers. This work shall also focus on a theoretical and practical understanding of the various methods and models for assessing adults across the age bracket. With an application of a wide selection of thoughts and works of various analysts and researchers in this field, this work shall be more critical on the thoughts brought forward. Theoretical approaches In an attempt to understand the dementia, it is important to study and analyse the theories and models that surround this symptom. This allows a clear comprehension of the policies, practices that shape the dementia discourse. The theoretical approaches, according to the words of Innes, Kelly, Andrews & McCabe (2012; pp. 26), allows for an understanding of the varying approaches applied by the professionals, nurses and social workers. Innes, Kelly, Andrews & McCabe (2012; pp. 26) continue to argue that an understanding of the theoretical approaches minimizes the mushrooming of unprofessional persons in the handling of dementia cases. Biomedical approach An understanding of the dementia condition is discussed on a medical perspective. The biomedical perspective, according to Innes, Kelly, Andrews & McCabe (2012; pp. 27) clears the situation whereby dementia is termed as an abnormality. It is in this case that discrimination of these persons occurs in the society. Through this model, Innes, Kelly, Andrews & McCabe (2012; pp. 28), proves that dementia is an abnormal and pathological condition. This condition has also been indicated to progress in varying stages and has been diagnosed through various biomedical assessments. A discussion of the abnormality of this condition indicates that dementia is related with abnormal aging. A clear boundary between normal aging and dementia is a clear proof of the abnormality of the adults with this condition. Additionally, the progression of the stages of dementia has been proven by the carers of these individuals. From this description, it becomes easier to predict the behaviour of the individuals in the future, though carers have been indicated to develop tension with this imagination (Innes, Kelly, Andrews & McCabe, 2012; pp. 26). Application of Biomedical approach when working with adults and their carers Through the biomedical approach, social workers, and other allied professionals are able to handle dementia through application of medical that comprise of chemicals. Through these chemicals, the caregivers will either worsen condition on the patient, or improve. Paraphrasing the thoughts of Innes, Kelly, Andrews & McCabe (2012; pp. 27), biomedical approach on dementia is of great benefit to the care givers. This approach allows for notion of dementia on a medical point of view, and an explanation of the reasons behind the condition. Having the label of a medical condition, diagnosis can be made on the infection, treatment based on the symptoms, and administration of other drugs that may improve the infection. Through this model, it is also possible to reduce stigmatization of this condition, which is mostly inclined to terming the infection as one that is more of a mental problem. Hughes (2011; pp. 161) indicate that through making dementia a medical condition, research has been done on types of dementia, inclusive of Alzheimer disease. Early diagnosis is also done thanks to the biomedical perspective; thus, prevention of the occurrence of the infection at a later stage in life. Though medical approach has been referred to as being to rush in making conclusions that the condition is almost untreatable, the persons with the condition are not allowed to share their views, this approach has made tremendous contribution in handling this condition. Innes, Kelly, Andrews & McCabe (2012; pp. 27) emphasize that with the invention of anti-dementia drugs, and a campaign on the prevention of the condition, alleviation of the syndrome will be a step ahead. Social-psychological approach Through the various niches evident in the biomedical approach, there was need to come up with the socio-psychological perspective. A huge percentage of the proponents of this theory focused more on the cons of the medical approach. This model according to Innes, Kelly, Andrews & McCabe (2012; pp. 28), indicate that persons living with dementia must be involved in the therapy imposed on them. This has been termed as the social relationship and the concept of the being. The therapy of dementia must include communication and interaction with the persons, which the social psychologists believe maintains the character of the patients. Recognizing the patients and their opinions gives an opportunity for offering specialized care, which builds new relationships with the caregivers as well as maintains the previous established ones. In the work of Hughes (2011; pp. 51) on Thinking Through Dementia, the social psychological approach, dementia has to be discussed on an awareness point of view. This makes the approach centred on the persons with dementia, hence making it easier for the patients to deal with the condition. The values of the human and respect of the individuals is touched by this model. Self identity that is brought out by this approach clearly is a plus, since the adults with dementia feel involved both in the condition they are through and the care that is subjected on them. Application of Social-psychological approach when working with adults and their carers An application of this model to the social workers and allied professionals when working with adults and their carers simply reminds them that the individual is very important whilst dealing with dementia. This model also reminds these professionals that the family members are also useful in helping the persons deal with the infection, especially through support. Early detection of the infection is also possible through this model, as well as therapy in times of symptoms of stress by the individuals. This condition, as a result, becomes a collective responsibility, which minimizes the disabilities that may be resultant from long established symptoms of dementia (Innes, Kelly, McCabe & Andrews, 2012; pp.30). Conversely, this approach does not focus on the financial, social, political and cultural disparities of the individuals living with dementia. This interprets that the general status of the persons with dementia is indeed questionable. Critical social gerontology approach This approach focuses on the economic status of the persons living with dementia in the social order. Innes, Kelly, McCabe & Andrews (2012; pp.31) indicate that the society comprises of structures that result to aging. The society at most times attributes dementia to successful aging. This is linked to cases of persons who aged successfully and were discovered as suffering the condition. Analysts argue that successful aging does not necessarily mean that one has to go through dementia. Stigmatization against the infection must also be shed light on, so as to break the gap created on these individuals. Alzheimers Disease Society (2001; pp.124) and Berrios (2000; pp.11) indicate that there must be hope for cure of the infection, and that the persons living with the condition can as well lead a fulfilling lifestyle. Gerontologists also shed light on the oppression that results to dementia, and that boosts diagnosis of dementia. As a solution, gerontologists recommend that the older populations be empowered towards handling various challenges that face this stage of life, and that much more is expected of them beyond the illness. Discrimination of the older populations also ought to be shunned, and voicing their needs in the society. Innes, Kelly, McCabe & Andrews, (2012; pp. 33) are of the opinion that this condition will require global attention , so as to access social and health care for the old persons with dementia. An early coverage of this condition will make it cheaper to handle dementia; thus, focus on individualized care on the individuals living with the condition. This model, in this light, focuses on more detailed issues that are intertwined to the condition of dementia. Application of Critical social gerontology approach when working with adults and their carers Professionals dealing with dementia on a gerontological view should be of the move to advocate that old age is a process that will be undergone by all. The negative view of these persons should hence be wiped out. The economic, cultural, social and political ‘lives’ of the persons living with dementia must be put into perspective prior to administration of therapy (Innes, Kelly, McCabe & Andrews, 2012; pp.35). In essence, wider social structures are fundamental in handling dementia. From the above discussion, it is evident that the theoretical approaches are of great help to the persons living with dementia. Caregivers must always consider the factors that are the basics of these theories (Innes, Kelly, McCabe & Andrews, 2012; pp. 35). All these theories all contribute towards a ‘dovetail’ in providing a ‘toolbox’ for practice in advocating for care of dementia patients. It is evident that an application of these models across the lifespan will not only create a situation whereby the patients feel involved in improving their conditions, but also create a worldwide notion that dementia patients should not be stigmatized. Methods/models for assessing adults across the age spectrum Proper assessment of the dementia syndrome varies from one social worker to the other. Application of the proper assessment tools has not been possible in all cases. Glasby (2004; pp.131) indicates that various models are emerging which leads to the variations in the assessment models. Assessment models should be directed to offering care and support to the dementia individuals. Among the assessment methods include assessment of the individuals’ financial ability, both for the caregivers and the patients. Application of this assessment technique reduces the financial constraints that the dementia patients may face. Secondly, assessment of the patients’ mental and health needs as a result of dementia is helpful. This method allows for a national funding for dementia, reducing the debt burden on the patients of dementia. The mental condition of the patients is also assessed to ensure if the patients require extra care from the social workers. Risk assessments and protection of the adults suffering from the syndrome is also carried on the patients. From these assessments, it is possible for home support to be applied on these patients, with the help of the social services. This applies also to persons with dementia who are physically challenged or any other impairment. In the work by Innes, Archibald & Murphy (2004; pp.124) and Tibbs (2001; pp.29), community services have been used as an assessment tool by providing the required equipment, providing advice and housing facilities on the patients. Keady (2003; pp.33) continues to argues that financial constraints bar many individuals from attaining help. Despite the numerous challenges that dementia patients face in an endeavour to access these assessment tools, social workers always hope that all these patients will access help at one time. Though some patients seek help after having undergone adverse conditions like admission cases, it is important that emphasis of enrolling for help is campaigned. References Alzheimers Disease Society, 2001. Younger People with Dementia: a guide to service development and provision. ADS, London. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. 17: 124-7. 16. Berrios, G., 2000. Dementia: Historical overview. In J. OBrien, D. Ames and A. Burn (eds.) Dementia, 2nd edn. London: Arnold. Glasby, J., 2004. Social services and the Single Assessment Process: early warning signs? Journal of Interprofessional Care, 18, 129–139. Hughes, J., 2011. Thinking Through Dementia. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Innes, A., Archibald, C., Murphy, C., 2004. Dementia And Social Inclusion: Marginalised Groups And Marginalised Areas Of Dementia Research, Care And Practice. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers. Innes, A., Kelly, F., Andrews, J., & McCabe, L., 2012. Key Issues in Evolving Dementia Care: International Theory-Based Policy and Practice. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers. Keady, 2003. Community Mental Health Nursing And Dementia Care. London: McGraw-Hill International. Tibbs, M. A. (2001). Social work and dementia: Good practice and care management. London: Jessica Kingsley. Read More