You are called by the daughter of an elderly woman who lives alone. The daughter lives in another city and is concerned because her mother does not drive and has seemed unhappy and listless on the phone. The daughter expresses concern that her mother seems lonely and is perhaps depressed. The daughter does not know her mother’s neighbors and calls you instead at the Office of Aging. She has told her mother she is going to call your agency for help, and the mother had no objection to that.

In each of the above situations, develop a tentative plan for the client. List the various services you believe each person needs initially. Include in your plan for each client both formal and generic services, and where appropriate, use social supports and support groups. Suggest other services the person might use later once the case is stabilized. Think about how you can involve others close to the person and how you will involve the client in planning.