Maria is a 78-year-old woman living alone in a suburban area. She has a history of diabetes and mobility issues that limit her ability to perform daily activities independently. Her son, who used to visit and assist her regularly, has recently moved to another city for work. Neighbors have expressed concerns to local social services about Maria’s welfare, mentioning that she seems to be increasingly isolated and has been observed to have bruises on her arms and legs. A social worker, Alex, is assigned to assess Maria’s situation and determine the necessary interventions.
Alex visits Maria at her home to conduct an initial assessment, using a structured professional judgement (SPJ) tool designed for assessing risk in older adults. The tool prompts Alex to consider a range of factors, including Maria’s physical health, mental state, social support, living conditions, and any signs of abuse or neglect.
Using the SPJ tool, Alex determines that Maria is at a high risk of further harm due to her physical health issues, social isolation, and unsafe living conditions. The risk of self-neglect is identified as a significant concern, requiring immediate intervention.
Based on the assessment, Alex develops a multi-disciplinary intervention plan:
This case study illustrates the application of risk assessment tools in identifying and managing risks to vulnerable individuals within the context of safeguarding. By conducting a comprehensive assessment and developing a tailored intervention plan, social workers like Alex can address the multifaceted risks faced by individuals like Maria, enhancing their safety, well-being, and quality of life.
Challenges and Considerations
While risk assessment tools are invaluable, professionals must be aware of their limitations. Reliance solely on tools without considering the broader context or without integrating professional judgement can lead to oversights. Furthermore, ethical considerations, such as respecting individuals’ rights and privacy, must guide the use of these tools.
Conclusion
Risk assessment tools are pivotal in safeguarding, offering structured ways to evaluate and manage potential risks. However, their effectiveness depends on their appropriate application within a holistic, informed, and sensitive safeguarding practice.