Family carers provide continuous care support to older adults with acute, transitional, and chronic impairments. However, family carers are twice as likely to suffer ill-health, both physically and mentally, compared to non-carers. Moreover, family carers with ill-health are more likely to be abusive, leading to family tragedy. Better support for family carers is associated with better health outcomes for frail older adults, family functioning, and the well-being of carers. This course examines profile, well-being, and needs of family carers globally and in Hong Kong. A critical evaluation of carer support services will be conducted. A clinical care management approach in supporting family carers will be introduced including assessment, ethics, care planning and intervention, and evaluation.
Pre-requisite: SOWK6193. Social gerontology
Assessment: 100% coursework