SOCIAL GROUP WORK WITH VULNERABLE OLDER PERSONS

This paper discusses the uses of social group work within the developmental model which looks at group life as a microcosm of the world. The author identifies the group as a modality for meeting differential needs of older persons. These needs are explored and some coincidence with the various stages of group development noted. The skills of the group worker are evoked on many levels-including that of making sound professional judgements regarding the appropriate use of the group for helping each individual. Groups for frail elderly persons may focus on one or more purposes.