O papel do assistente social na promoção do bem-estar de idosos no contexto de institucionalização- caso do Centro de Apoio a Velhice de Lhanguene (Cav- Lhanguene)

Abstract

The present study entitled “The role of social workers in the promotion of well-being of the elderly in the context of institutionalisation: the case of Centro de Apoio a Velhice de Lhanguene (CAV- Lhanguene)” aimed at understanding the role of social workers in the promotion of well-being of the elderly. Specifically, the study addressed the following objectives. Firstly, identify the role of social workers in the promotion of well-being of elders at CAV-Lhanguene. Secondly, describe the challenges faced by social workers in the promotion of well-being of elders at CAV-Lhanguene. Thirdly, demonstrate the work of social workers at Cav-Lhanguene in the promotion of well-being of elders as servants of the institution. In addition, this research was guided by the following question: What role social workers play in the promotion of well-being of the elderly in the context of institutionalisation? In the same vein, the following hypotheses were defined. In the first hypothesis (H1), social workers at CAV-Lhanguene use their competencies for the planning and execution of projects aimed at promoting the well-being of elders. On the other hand, in the second hypothesis (H2), social workers do not play active and concrete actions for the promotion of well-being of elders. With regard to methodology, this study adopted a qualitative approach and was sustained by descriptive and monographic methods. Concerning the research findings, the study found that social workers play a crucial role for the promotion of well-being of the elderly. As a support of this claim, the data shows that these professionals have planned activities that are conducive to solve elders concerns. However, there still remain limitations at CAV-Lhanguene regarding the need to address and attend to the needs of elders more broadly. In spite of this challenge, the institution has made efforts to afford the basic needs to this vulnerable group.