Loneliness and Congregational Social Work

By 2030, one in five people will be at least sixty-five years old. Socio-demographic changes pose challenges for the wellbeing of older adults. Among these is social isolation. Because of its impact on health, eradication of social isolation has recently been named one of social work's Grand Ch...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Social work and Christianity 2018-04, Vol.45 (1), p.8-23
Main Authors: Charles, Victoria A, Wolfer, Terry A
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Aging
Alzheimer's disease
Baby boomers
Cardiovascular disease
Census of Population
Community development
Loneliness
Multiculturalism & pluralism
Older people
Quality of life
Religious congregations
Social activities
Social isolation
Social networks
Social psychology
Social support
Social work
Social workers
Sociodemographics
Support networks
System theory
Well being
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Summary:By 2030, one in five people will be at least sixty-five years old. Socio-demographic changes pose challenges for the wellbeing of older adults. Among these is social isolation. Because of its impact on health, eradication of social isolation has recently been named one of social work's Grand Challenges. The size and diversity of close support networks have declined in the United States increasing the risk of social isolation. Interventions involving older adults in meaningful social activities within their communities may build and enhance social networks. Socially cohesive communities present opportunities for shared social support. Leveraging support resources within a congregation may promote wellbeing for those experiencing social isolation and loneliness, and congregational social workers are well positioned to lead these efforts. Social workers can use community development, community organizing, and direct practice skills to facilitate supports and relationships, as either volunteers or employees in congregations.
ISSN:0737-5778
1944-7779