Careers in
Social Services

Social service designees are entry-level social work assistants who work in senior living communities. Social service designees work under the supervision of licensed social workers and other staff who have more education and experience and assist these professionals with their daily tasks. They often conduct admission interviews, inform residents and their families of their rights, advocate for residents with social services organizations, help residents to adjust to living in the facility, and coordinate care services.

Education & Experience:

Social service designees need to have a high school diploma and be able to perform the role of social service designee, which varies by facility. A facility with less than 120 beds can employ a Social Service Designee as the Social Service Director. Quarterly consultations with a person meeting the full Director requirements is required in these situations. Scholarships for individuals pursuing educational training for Social Service Designee certification are available.

Social workers who are employed in geriatric care communities perform several functions, including helping new residents adjust to life in their new environment, advocating for the residents’ needs and rights, providing supportive counseling and making psychosocial assessments. Social workers collaborate with other health care professionals, such as physicians and nurses, to develop an individualized plan of care. When a discharge is an option, the social worker will make referrals for mental health services and coordinate discharge planning. If an older adult is not expected to go home, the social worker can help him or her deal with feelings of loss or depression. The social worker’s duties may be related to end of life planning. Any facility with more than 120 beds must employ a qualified social worker on a full-time basis.

Education & Experience:

A social worker must possess a bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW) or a human services field including but not limited to sociology, special education, rehabilitation, counseling, and psychology. This degree typically takes four years to complete.