Jo-Lynn Herbert, MSW says, “Generational respect and care usually transfers to respecting, caring for self and others. It’s great and feels great to help someone who needs care and protection.” Younger generations have the responsibility to take care of older generations who took care of their elders in their time. We all have a responsibility of contributing in some way to populations in need. Herbert explains, “I see myself in having some responsibility in helping seniors and act as a link for change, care, compassion of service.”
Any social worker who has worked in a hospital’s emergency department and other intensive care departments, including Level 1 Trauma Bay and Adult Protective Services, have witnessed seniors suffering from falls, neglect/self-neglect and mental issues due to their environments and other life situations. We all have a responsibility to provide a resource to reduce or eliminate these situations by caring, thinking creatively and being available to provide a resource. It is very important to care and find ways to help wherever seniors are living.
Seniors needing to be hospitalized or transitioned in to a new living situation worry about their belongings. Wondering what will happen to their stuff and asking for help. For seniors facing foreclosure, eviction, mental or medical emergencies or long term inpatient care and/or having need to pack their belongings because they could not afford their home where they have been living in for years is a frightening experience. Herbert says, “As a social worker, there were so many situations where I witnessed seniors in these situations who had little money. Many times there was no one to call or no agency to call for help. So I decided to be that call that will bring relief to seniors in this capacity.”
It is important for any professional aiding seniors to always have a fresh set of new eyes. The situation may sound the same, but it’s a different person facing the challenge. Each and every person has their own personality, insight, experience, feelings, challenge and tolerance level that increases the necessary level of patience and understanding. If the same person is having the same problem again there is always an opportunity of a turn around by using different approaches. The professional will never give up on a person and always works to bring relief and satisfaction.
When professional help is needed by the senior, look for someone who is trustworthy and has a history of providing services to at-risk populations and has demonstrated a level of concern that they truly want to be part of the helping process.
You can see more about Jo-Lynn Herbert on The San Diego Professional Journal
http://www.health-beauty.sandiegoprofessionaljournal.com/jo-lynn-herbert-msw/.
Or by calling 858-900-8651.