Theories of successful aging explain factors that support individuals as they grow old, contributing to their ability to function. Increasing your understanding of factors that support successful aging improves your ability to address the needs of elderly clients and their families.

To prepare for this Discussion, review this week’s media. In addition, select a theory of successful aging to apply to Sara’s case.

Parker Family Episode 2 Program Transcript PARKER: Ever since my husband died, there’s been no one to talk to. It’s just, really, no one. And when Stephanie is home, I just feel so alone. FEMALE SPEAKER: What about the day center you go to? Isn’t that helping? PARKER: I don’t like it. What makes me really feel good, though, is when I go shopping, buying things. And my kittens. I love my cats. Oh, have you seen them? I have pictures. Just take a look. Look! These are so cute. My babies. FEMALE SPEAKER: Yes, they’re very cute. And wow, you have a lot of them.  PARKER: Oh, well, it’s their home, too, not just Princess Stephanie’s.  FEMALE SPEAKER: The day program you’re attending, are you seeing a  psychiatrist there?  PARKER: Yes. Dr. Lewin.  FEMALE SPEAKER: May I ask how that’s going?  PARKER: He says that I’m depressed.  FEMALE SPEAKER: In the pictures you showed me, you just talked about the  cats, but I also saw all the things you keep around you, the hoarding. I understand how depressed you been since your husband passed away. How alone you’ve felt. [SIGH] But I would like us to try and set up a plan to begin to address the hoarding. It’s very clear that that’s one of the big issues that’s affecting your relationship with Stephanie and your life together. Can we try that? PARKER: I don’t like it when we fight. She’s still my baby, too. Yes, I want to try.  

References to use

Clark, E. (2018). Loss and suffering: The role of social work. Retrieved from

http://www.socialworker.com/feature-articles/practice/loss-and-suffering-the-role-of-social-work/

Fisher, C. (2018). Counseling connoisseur: Children and grief. Retrieved from

https://ct.counseling.org/2018/11/counseling-connoisseur-children-and-grief/

Zoll, L. (n.d.). A grief trajectory. Retrieved from https://www.socialworktoday.com/news/pp_063017_5.shtml

By Day 3

Post a Discussion in which you:

• Explain key life events that have influenced Sara’s relationships. Be sure to substantiate what makes them key in your perspective.
• Explain how you, as Sara’s social worker, might apply a theory of successful aging to her case. Be sure to provide support for your strategy.