Social workers play an integral part in the functioning of society. Without them, we would be lost when navigating life’s challenges. Their calmness under pressure, willingness to help others at the drop of a hat, and empathy when dealing with those in crises make them invaluable. The role social workers play in assisting seniors cannot be overlooked either. When your aging loved one or senior parent suddenly needs round-the-clock care and you have no idea where to start, your first course of action would be to get in touch with a social worker.
You may find yourself thinking, ‘but what is the purpose of a senior placement agent then?’ Let’s explore the answer together.
How do Social Workers and Senior Placement Agents Differ?
Social workers typically identify people and communities needing help and then pass this info on to a certified senior placement agent who can help with the next step in the journey, such as researching communities, touring these same communities, and organizing placement at a specific date.
Certified senior placement agents identify communities and living arrangements that fit a senior client’s purpose based on several demographic and psychographic factors.
It’s also important to note that the role of a social worker varies depending on a couple of factors, such as the type of placement needed for a senior and their place of employment. For example, a social worker employed within a hospice facility will typically assist with many peripheral services such as pain management and arranging of ongoing counseling for the family and will provide the necessary information about appropriate funeral services if needed. Generally speaking, this requires a lengthier period of involvement with a family or senior.
The certified senior placement agent will generally be brought in at the stage where placement is needed based on the senior’s specific care needs. An excellent way to think of this is that the social worker sees the entire picture up front, while the certified placement agent will get a snapshot later.
How Does the Role of the Social Worker Overlap with that of the Senior Placement Agent?
We’ve discussed how social workers and certified senior placement agents differ, but let’s look at how they are similar.
- Both have the best interest of the senior at heart and will assist with a reputable referral where necessary if they cannot help.
- Both offer their services free of charge.
- Both work alongside families and seniors to ensure positive outcomes in care, living situations, and mental health.
*This blog was written under the expert direction of Syble Simms, a social worker in Phoenix with over 10 years of experience in various senior care settings.
