What Do Social Workers Do in Eldercare?

Social workers play a vital role in helping older adults and their families address the many challenges that come with aging. Whether working in hospitals, senior centers, home care agencies or nonprofit organizations, these professionals provide guidance, advocacy and emotional support to improve an older adult’s quality of life. Their expertise spans several key areas, including: 

• Care Coordination: Social workers help arrange and coordinate services such as home health care, meal delivery programs, transportation and senior center activities to ensure an older adult’s needs are met. 

• Crisis Intervention: If your loved one experiences a sudden health decline, financial hardship or major life transition, social workers can connect you with emergency resources and long-term solutions.

• Financial and Legal Assistance: Many social workers assist in identifying financial aid programs, navigating insurance benefits like Medicare and Medicaid, and helping with advance care planning, such as living wills and power of attorney. 

• Emotional and Mental Health Support: Aging can bring feelings of isolation, grief or depression. Social workers offer counseling services and connect older adults with support groups to foster emotional well-being. 

• Advocacy: Social workers advocate for older adults’ rights in medical settings, ensuring they receive appropriate care and that family members are included in decision-making. 

Where to Find a Social Worker

Social workers are available in many settings, including: 

• Hospitals and Rehabilitation Centers – Most medical facilities have social workers who assist with discharge planning and ongoing care coordination. 

• Senior Centers and Nonprofit Organizations – Many community-based organizations offer social work services to older adults and their caregivers. 

• Area Agencies on Aging – Local government programs provide case management services to help older adults age in place.

• Home Health Care Agencies – If your loved one receives in-home medical or personal care, social workers may be part of their care team.

A Team Approach to Eldercare

Caring for an older loved one doesn’t have to be a journey you take alone. Social workers offer the expertise, support, and advocacy needed to make the caregiving process smoother and less overwhelming. By working together, you can ensure that your loved one receives the care, dignity, and respect they deserve—while also making caregiving a more manageable experience for yourself. 

If you’re looking for social work support, consider reaching out to a local aging services provider to learn more about available resources.