What is the purpose of social services in gerontology?

The purpose of social services in gerontology centers on supporting aging individuals in living independently and enhancing their overall quality of life. This involves a wide range of resources and support systems aimed at helping older adults maintain their autonomy while ensuring that they have access to the necessary services, social engagement, and community resources. This holistic approach is essential for addressing the complex needs of older adults, which often include healthcare, social interaction, mental health support, and assistance with daily living activities.

While preventing elder abuse, overseeing assisted living facilities, and addressing issues of social isolation are important aspects of elder care, they serve specific functions within the broader context of social services. Elder abuse prevention is one crucial focus, but it is just a segment of what social services encompass. Similarly, oversight of assisted living facilities is more about regulatory compliance and operational standards than about directly supporting individual quality of life, and promoting social isolation contradicts the overarching goal of social services, which is to foster community, engagement, and independence among older adults.