2017 Volume 57 Issue 4 Pages 71-84
The aim of this study was to ascertain the process by which certified social workers at local comprehensive support centers provide support to elderly persons with dementia. Interviews were conducted with nine certified social workers, and transcripts were analyzed using a modified grounded theory approach. Results revealed that advocating for elderly persons with dementia occurred in phases. The pre-advocacy phase is focused on divining client intent and deciding the timing and circumstances of client advocacy to better advocate for the client. This phase leads to the advocacy phase, wherein the social worker advocates for the client’s intent. In some instances, however, advocacy is temporarily halted because of circumstances. Following the advocacy phase is the post-advocacy phase, which is focused on taking a closer look at the situation after advocating for the client and continued interaction with the client. Active client advocacy by a certified social worker lays at the heart of each phase. Even though a round of advocating for an elderly client with dementia may end, the progression of dementia and the passage of time might occasion a new round of advocacy at a future point. This means that continued efforts during the pre-advocacy phase are crucial.
