Allocating social services to the elderly: a review and decision making model

Abstract

As a result of population ageing and a reduction in informal care, public institutions must assume a higher responsibility in caring for the elderly and providing services that respond to their needs. The aim of this study is, on the one hand, to investigate the profiles of elderly people using social services; and, on the other hand, to examine whether any classification systems and/or assessment tools are available to guide professionals in the assignment of services. A systematic literature review was carried out using PsycINFO, Web of Science, Dialnet, CSIC and Teseo, and a total of 44 studies were selected. The following variables were identified as predictors of service usage: functional dependency, cognitive impairment, lack or deficit of social support and bad housing conditions. No classification systems or assessment tools were found for facilitating the assignment of services according to profiles. A Decision- Making Model is proposed – based on the identified predictor variables - that aims to ensure an appropriate fit between the needs of the elderly and the social services provided.