Date of Award

6-6-1997

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Department

Social Work

First Advisor

Anthony Bibus, III

Second Advisor

Kristen Lund

Third Advisor

Beth Wiggins

Abstract

This exploratory quantitative study was undertaken to examine the complex relationship between social support and the self-reported physical and emotional health status of older adults. The participants (N=30), clients and volunteers of DARTS (Dakota Area Resources and Transportation For Seniors), completed a structured interview consisting of twenty-one questions from two validated questionnaires. The survey measured physical health status, emotional well-being and perceived social support of the participants. The implications of the findings of this study, although complex in nature, are consistent with past studies and will assist DARTS in planning and evaluating services for seniors and their caregivers in Dakota County. One of the most important implications was for social workers to be respectful of older adult's need to maintain social desirability both for themselves and their families. This need requires us to word research questions and inquiries assessing need for services carefully so that respondents can give as accurate information as possible without losing face or threatening their pride and that of their family.

Identifier

SC 11.MSW.1997.Cahill.JL

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