Servicii alternative la institutionalizare pentru persoanele de varsta a treia

Rezumat

The traditional perspective of the Romanian society upon aged persons is that of an unanimous respect at community level. Elder's care level and quality are important indicators of wellness and health of each nation. We may say that, as any society has the politicians it deserves, as well a nation has the level of protection of the 3rd age given by its social, economic and moral development. In Romania, as elsewhere in the world, we are seeking alternative solutions to institutionalization not only for children, but also equally for elders. The removal of the aged person out of the family is an unnatural solution and it must be the last possible choice. If the aged person is living alone, whatever the reason should be (celibate, divorce, death of life partner, or discharged by the family. If the aged person is living alone, whatever the reason should be (celibate, divorce, death of life partner, or discharged by the family) it is advisable to avoid institutionalization, because maintaining an aged person in a social relationship environment, even though it is a very small circle, gives a sense to the existence of that person, maintains her/him in a normal life relationship. The 3rd age persons have the right of self-determination, the right to freely choose their place to live. The decision of institutionalization is the most painful that should be taken, as the institution is in most cases the "final station" of their life journey. Based on my professional experience I can estimate that the most solicited social services for aged-care are those of Home Care, which I consider to be the most effective. There are certainly other services of proven high value, as Day Centers or Advisory Services. The Home Care Services allow the aged persons with partial or almost total loss of self-service capabilities to have a quite independent life in their own home. The main goal of these services is that of prevent, delay or even replace the "active" care in hospital or long-term care in specialised institutions.?