Human Behavior Theory and Social Work Practice with Marginalized Oppressed Populations by unknow

Author:unknow
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Social Science, Social Work
ISBN: 9780429951169
Google: ewuWDwAAQBAJ
Barnesnoble:
Publisher: Routledge
Published: 2019-04-29T00:00:00+00:00

Examining Family Needs and Functional Capacity

The first task of an RESM family assessment is to bring together members of the family. An older adult with a little or moderate amount of dementia may enjoy collaborating on this life review activity. During a family meeting, social workers learn how the family is organized, and each member’s respective caregiving role is revealed. Social workers and client systems gain an understanding of strengths and stressors and how well the unit is functioning. Although there are general similarities and differences between families in terms of caregiving patterns, each family must receive a unique RESM assessment.

Social workers should consider the family as a client system that has developed over time, with changing roles and sometimes family reconstruction. During the collection of the family narrative, social workers try to understand four aspects of its function: (1) family stress; (2) the family as a social system; (3) the family as a developmental unit; and (4) the family as a set of reciprocal roles (Greene, Galambos, Cohen, & Greene, 2016).

Any need for family restructuring or more formal resources will gradually become apparent during the assessment. For example, in a follow-up interview called for by Grandpa’s two daughters, N. J. further established a third space and learned the difficulties members were facing:

N. J.:Thanks for inviting me back.

OLIVIA:Yes, Sharon and Jasmine wanted to talk again.

JASMINE:We did, but the rest of them just don’t understand.

N. J.:What would you like them to know?

JASMINE:I don’t want them on my case. But I think anyone can tell we are a big family but still need more help!

N. J.:Can we start with what any day is like? Who does what and when for Grandpa?

OLIVIA:Jerry Jr. comes over very early before work and gets Grandpa dressed. We won’t see him until the next day.

JERRY JR.:I work 25 miles from here and try to get here at night to put Dad to bed. I’m doing my best.

SHARON:We are not saying you don’t try, but it seems like Jasmine and I are on call 24/7. It is getting more difficult to keep up since Grandpa’s last fall. He may need more eyes on him.

N. J.:This may be where the home health care team comes in, so we can figure out what is needed to reduce or support your caregiving tasks. Let’s see what you all have to say. Do we know what Grandpa needs and wants?

JERRY JR.:We have always been here for each other. Why, when Jasmine had her appendectomy, we all chipped in. Same when Dad fell down and recovered.

N. J.:Well, let’s get down to it and learn what services Grandpa is eligible for. Sometimes this may depend on whether he has insurance.

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