Elaboration on the challenges of group work when working with elderly and possible interventions

1. Elaborate on the challenges of
group work with the elderly and
provide possible interventions

2. cognitive
decline
 A challenge which a social worker can encounter when working with the elderly is
cognitive decline. Cognition is critical for fundamental independence as people
age , including whether someone can live independently, manage finances , take
medications correctly, and drive safely. Cognitive abilities can be divided into
several several specific cognitive domains, including attention, memory,
executive cognitive function , language, and visuospatial abilities.
 Each of these domains has measurable declines with age(Lezak MD et al. 2012).
Degenerative dementia is the most common cause of significant late-life cognitive
decline(Sonnen J A et al). A group worker can help the elderly by helping them
accept and manage the memory problems and the psychosocial consequences
through psychoeducation, cognitive rehabilitation, and cognitive-behavioral
therapy (Joosten-Weyn Banningh LWA,et.al.To add on , a social worker can also
make adjustments in the CBT method, like shortening of verbal or written
instructions, repeating important information and using of reminder cues,
requiring the patient to make notes , or simply repeating the ongoing discussions
to ease group tension.There is also promotion of mutual support among the
participating patients and between the patients and their significant others.With
the aid of Synder et.al's procedure participants can learn to optimize internal and
external memory strategies, to recognize memory problems in daily life and to
explore their explanations and attributions, improve the communication with their
partner and others and train self-regulation skills in line with topics such as
diagnostic uncertainty, dependency on others and stigmatization.

3. Cont
 Challenges of Group Work with the Elderly
Group work with the elderly can present various
challenges due to the unique needs and characteristics
of this population. One significant challenge is
cognitive decline. As individuals age, they may
experience cognitive impairments such as memory loss
or difficulty in processing information.This can make it
challenging for elderly participants to actively engage
in group activities, follow instructions, or retain new
information during group sessions (Haight & Webster,
2014).

4. Communication
barrier
 Communication barriers also pose a challenge in group
work with the elderly. Hearing loss, vision impairment,
or language difficulties can make it hard for older
adults to effectively communicate with each other and
with facilitators during group sessions.This can lead to
misunderstandings, frustration, and feelings of isolation
among participants (Haight & Webster,)

5. Physical
limitations
 One of the challenges faced by group workers when working with
the elderly is physical limitations that may impact their ability to
fully participate in activities or engage in group work. Physical
limitations can include mobility issues, chronic pain, visual or
hearing impairments, and other age-related conditions that affect
an individual's physical abilities.
According to a study by Puts et al. (2005), physical limitations
among the elderly can significantly impact their quality of life and
ability to participate in social activities.This can pose challenges
for group workers who may need to accommodate these physical
limitations in order to create inclusive and accessible
environments for all participants.
Furthermore, a research article by Stuck et al. (1999) highlights the
importance of considering the individual needs and capabilities of
elderly individuals when designing group work interventions.
Group workers may need to adapt activities, provide assistive
devices, or make accommodations to address physical limitations
and ensure that all participants can fully engage in the activities.

6. Socialisolation
 Moreover, social isolation is a common issue among the
elderly population, especially for those living alone or
in long-term care facilities. Group work can be an
opportunity to foster social connections and reduce
feelings of loneliness; however, some elderly
individuals may struggle to form new relationships or
feel uncomfortable in group settings, which can impede
their participation and engagement (Baker et al., 2022)
 According to Pressinotto J etal (2012),social isolation
affects over 40% of older adults in the united
States,leading to adverse health outcomes such as
cognitive decline ,cardiovascular diseases and
mortality.Group work can therefore be a challenge
when working with the elderly because they may be
feeling not needed,valued or able to contribute leading
to a lack of participation in group activities

7. Solutions-
 In addressing physical limitations among the elderly,
group workers can collaborate with healthcare
professionals, occupational therapists, and other
specialists to develop personalized plans and strategies
that support the overall well-being and participation of
elderly individuals in group work settings. For example
when implementing a measure such involving
healthcare professional
 Making adjustments to the physical environment or
providing assistive devices can support elderly
individuals with physical limitations in participating
fully in group activities. Ensuring accessibility and
comfort can encourage active involvement and improve
overall satisfaction with the program (Baker et al.,
2022).

8. Social
engagementto
counter
isolation
 social engagement is necessary to alienate the challenge for social
isolation in group work with the elderly .Social engagement fosters
connections ,promoting interactions and also promote a sense of
belonging .In group activities ,the social engagement interactions are
effective in group work with the elderly as they offer opportunities for
shared expenses ,mutual support .Lemoncello R 2005 explores the
significance of social engagement with the elderly in group work.The
activities are outlined in his handbook aimed to promote social
interactions, cognitive and emotional wellbeing of the
elderly .Lemoncello emphasized on the effects of structured group
work in alleviating social isolation in the elderly
 To add on ,Dominelli L (2002 )also insights on the role of the social
work in supporting the elderly ,specifically in group settings .The
author entails on the value of community based intentions that
prioritize collective activities and social engagement to enhance the
overall health and conducive environment for the older adults ,By
doing this , Dominelli reflects on the significance of fostering
connections and building supportive networks to shaun social isolation
effectively and encourage group participation among the elderly

9. Cont
 Social Support: Creating a supportive and inclusive
atmosphere within the group can help combat social
isolation among the elderly. Encouraging peer
interactions, fostering a sense of belonging, and
organizing social events outside of regular sessions can
promote social connections and emotional well-being
(Baker et al., 2022).

10. Tocounter
communicationbarriers-
implementingalternative
communicationstrategies
 Furthermore, a research article by Stuck et al. (1999)
highlights the importance of considering the individual
needs and capabilities of elderly individuals when
designing group work interventions. Group workers
may need to adapt activities, provide assistive devices,
or make accommodations to address physical
limitations and ensure that all participants can fully
engage in the activities.
 Effective Communication Strategies: Implementing
clear communication techniques such as speaking
slowly, using visual aids, or ensuring adequate lighting
can help overcome communication barriers among
elderly participants. Facilitators should also encourage
active listening and provide opportunities for all
members to express themselves (Haight & Webster,
2014)

11. To counter
cognitive
decline
 Designing group activities that cater to the cognitive abilities
and interests of elderly participants can promote engagement
and enjoyment.Tailoring activities to match individual
preferences and capabilities can help overcome cognitive
barriers and enhance participation (Haight & Webster, 2014).
 In addition making use of of methods such as re-learning,
chucking (group of information)
 Mnemonic devices : One example of a mnemonic device that
can be used is the acronym ROY G BIV which stands for red
orange yellow green blue indigo and violet.This can be used
to help remember the colors of the rainbow in oder. Another
mnemonic device is the 30 second rule which involves
repeating a piece of information over and over again every 30
seconds to help it stick in the memory.The 5Ws is another
mnemonic device that can be used to remember important
details about an event or situation