SOCIAL SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY IN THE ERA OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

This research is about social services for the elderly in the Covid-19 era. This qualitative research with a case study approach focuses on twenty elderly people who experience problems such as boredom,  stress, lack of interaction, irritability, etc. Data collection techniques using observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. Research data analysis was carried out from the beginning to the end of the study. The results of the study show that: First, as humans who are vulnerable to death and are at high risk of Covid-19 transmission, the elderly age group needs to carry out social intervention through the provision of social services in the fields of religion, physical health and skills. Social services in the religious field include ways of ablution, prayer, dhikr, reciting the Koran, praying, to becoming an imam in congregational prayers at the mosque. Social services in the health sector include washing hands with soap, maintaining distance, and using masks when interacting with other people. Meanwhile, social services in the field of providing skills include skills in farming, gardening, animal husbandry, lulo dance, woven mats, etc. Second, in providing social services to the elderly, social workers do not only focus on the problems and shortcomings of the elderly, but also focus on the potential, strengths, and abilities of the elderly. Finally, to realize the social welfare of the elderly age group, the involvement of all stakeholders is very necessary, not only the government but also non-government, the business world, and society as a whole.