What do social workers do? Counselling; Admissions and discharge planning; Advocacy; Support groups; Family and resident councils; and Research and education. Through the use of social work knowledge and skills, social workers develop collaborative relationships with aging clients and their families to promote client centered goals. As part of an interdisciplinary setting, we share our expertise in gerontological social work to advance the understanding of aging to enrich the quality of life of the elderly. Our vision To be leaders and collaborators in the field of gerontology, and to initiate, support and sustain a society that values its elders. To be recognized for our innovation and excellence in care, research and education. As part of the healthcare team, Social workers make a contribution in a variety of areas. Social workers assist with: Planning and problem solving; Encouraging holistic approaches to client care; Assisting with conflict resolution; Program planning and implementation; Developing therapeutic relationships with clients and families; and Supporting client advocacy and organizing family support groups, family councils, resident councils, and co-ordination with other community services. What social work services are provided at Baycrest? Social workers play a key role within Baycrest by: Enhancing the quality of life of residents by striving to minimize institutional aspects within the facility and by counteracting the impact of helplessness, hopelessness, loneliness and boredom; Dealing with interpersonal issues ranging from intimacy to aggression and violence; Ensuring that residents’ self-determination is safe-guarded to the extent possible through actively involving them in planning and decision-making; Locating and arranging resources; Helping resident’s family members who are dealing with issues related to placement; Dealing with palliative care and end-of-life issues both with the resident and with their family; Providing expertise in geriatric consultation or other aspects of care relevant to the Baycrest mandate; Supporting, developing or implementing innovative programs relevant to the facility’s mandate; Promoting a positive atmosphere and attitudes and playing a leadership role in counteracting stereotyping, stigmatization and discrimination; and Educating social work and allied health students and developing evidence based practice that integrates care with research and education. Where do social workers work at Baycrest? Seniors’ counselling and referral services; Community programs; Apotex Centre, Jewish Home for the Aged; Baycrest hospital inpatient programs; Terraces of Baycrest; and Special services for Holocaust survivors and their families.