Relevance of social work : social work as a factor in respite care

Abstract

Families having member/s with disabilities, are in several ways disadvantaged socially. Such families may experience limitations in their social mobility usually experienced during the various maturational stages that characterize life. Like in any disadvantaged group, comprehensive respite care is seen as a major tool in re-addressing this imbalance. It aims at providing periodic relief for these families and making sure that the person with disability and other siblings have as nourishing an environment as possible. This program can be fulfilled through the development, management and administration by the social workers. They enable families to take a much-deserved break from the role and responsibility of continuously caring for a person requiring special attention. Such families will hopefully strengthen their commitment towards their members, preserving family cohesion and avoiding the risk of institutionalization.