Community Intervention with the Elderly: A Social Network Approach

Abstract

A technique is described for using the advantages of a social systems approach when working with elderly persons in psychiatric distress. The technique is based on the assumption that the solution to a variety of human predicaments lies within the collective instrumental and affective resources of the client's social network. The vehicle for accomplishing this objective is the "Network Session" during which a mental health professional meets with the elderly person and members of his/her social network to help resolve the difficulty. A case report demonstrating use of the technique is included.

Network Variables as Determinants of the Elderly Entering Adult Residential Care Facilities

“…Network sessions have proved to be a useful, albeit somewhat expensive approach toward maximizing intranetwork cooperation. 31 (4) Create new networks by recruiting volunteers, as is done in respite programs, mobilising neighbours, and/or involving the caregiver in self-help, mutual support groups.…”

The Relationship of Self‐help Networks to Physical and Psychosocial Functioning

“…Some recent literature advocates a social network approach to treatment. 27 The technique draws on the collective instrumental and affective resources p f the client's social contacts. It involves such components of support as family, friends, neighbors, and caregiving professionals.…”

“…Some recent literature advocates a social network approach to treatment 27 . The technique draws on the collective instrumental and affective resources of the client's social contacts.…”

Psychotherapy with the elderly in public mental health settings

“…Such strategies include assisting network members to increase support and exchange within their existing system, helping clients to expand their networks, identifying and training natural neighborhood helpers (such as letter carriers or hotel maids) in how to assist the older person, and educating other service personnel in how to work with existing networks. A second approach has entailed the actual convening of all the key members of the elderly individual's social network-friends, relatives, service professionals-into a network "session" aimed at developing a treatment plan for the client, created and encouraged by the members themselves (Garrison and Howe, 1976).…”