Journal of gerontological social work
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J Gerontol Soc Work · Apr 2009
ReviewCompassion fatigue and the adult protective services social worker.
Compassion fatigue is a relatively new term that describes the symptoms that are experienced by social workers and other helping professionals who work with clients experiencing trauma. This article defines the concept of compassion fatigue and relates compassion fatigue to Adult Protective Services (APS) social workers. It is proposed that APS social workers may be susceptible to the deleterious effects of compassion fatigue due to the nature of their work and environment. Suggestions for avoidance of compassion fatigue are also discussed, including self-care strategies and the need for continuing education regarding this phenomenon.
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The number of individuals with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia is growing at a staggering rate. Thus, it is essential that social workers in geriatric settings are knowledgeable about this disorder and the appropriate interventions to use at all stages of the disease. ⋯ While great strides have been made in pharmacological treatments of Alzheimer's disease, less attention has been given to the types of psychosocial interventions that are readily employed in community-based and long-term care settings to assist in the care of these individuals. This article provides an overview of psychosocial interventions, as well as identifies the direction for future evidence-based treatment studies, for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementia.