Within the last several years, the issue of quantitative vs. qualitative research methods has become an important and controversial subject of debate within the field of social work. While traditional quantitative studies have predominated in social work research, many scholars and practitioners in the field believe that qualitative studies better capture the context, complexity and change processes inherent in social work practice.

This eminently practical book applies the task-centered model to gerontological practice across various settings (community based, hospital based, home healthcare, etc.). After an introductory chapter presenting demographic background information and outlining the common problems and needs of an elderly population, the book describes the continuum of care and the principal providers of services.

Gerontological Social Work features in-depth coverage of specific client problems, such as physical or mental health, caregiving, home and personal safety, senior living, and long-term care...