Improving the Service Delivery System for Older Adults Living Alone in Korea

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify ways to improve the current care service delivery system for older adults living alone in the community in Korea, including service content, client eligibility, and organizations providing services. A focus group was conducted with 25 service managers across Korea (who are also social workers). These participants consisted of 14 regional service managers in regional service centers, which manage and provide supervision to local service centers, and 11 managers in local service centers, which provide direct services to older adults living alone. The results showed that both regional and local service managers experienced poor working conditions, role conflict, and ambiguity when delivering services to older adults living alone. The most challenging aspects of providing services were identified as a lack of flexibility to meet the needs of clients and inadequate eligibility criteria for client selection. Findings from this study have implications for policy and practice change to improve the current care service delivery system for older adults living alone. Future studies should include service users to identify client-centered initiatives to improve the care service delivery system.

Social Relationships and Suicidal Ideation Among the Elderly Who Live Alone in Republic of Korea: A Logistic Model

“…The program was designed to protect older adults living alone from social isolation and to provide them with support services. 44…”

The family as a source of social support for older adults: Implications for gerontological social work

“…Korean authors argue that social services primarily targeting older adults who live in one-person households are necessary, because these older adults often cannot expect social support from their families. Moreover, they argue that older adults who live in one-person households are at risk in other aspects of daily life too and suggest that social services for this group of older adults should focus on the following areas: ensuring their safety, contact with family, available information, and developing appropriate social support for informal caregivers (Chung et al, 2016).…”