Based on your analysis of Jean’s case, research and select the most appropriate research-based strategies to use with this client. What are the most effective strategies used with the client populations that Jean represents? Provide a strengths-based focus to identify client needs represented in the context of the case.
Note that Jean is facing a number of issues. She is suffering from the effects of a debilitating stroke. She has been diagnosed with PTSD and is struggling to recover from an incident of terrible violence. She is also aging and working to adjust to giving up some of her treasured independence. What strategies would you suggest for each condition, and how may they fit together? What evidence supports you?
Case Study
Jean is an 87-year-old woman who was admitted to Manchester Community Hospital, in Manchester, New Hampshire, after having a debilitating stroke that paralyzed the left half of her body. She is a widow, and her three adult children live in different states. She needs assistance eating, transferring to her wheelchair, and most other activities of daily living. Her medical issues related to the stroke are quickly being resolved, and it is time to begin assessing her needs for discharge and post-discharge. It is important to note that Jean’s savings have been totally depleted and her medical bills are mounting since her healthcare insurance has proven to be inadequate to cover her medical expenses. Her limited pension and social security barely covered her living expenses prior to her stroke and are unlikely to cover the escalating expenses that she will undoubtedly encounter based on her medical condition. Moreover, Jean has been clinically diagnosed with PTSD after being raped by a neighbor in her home two years ago. She is still grappling with the effects of the trauma, even as the criminal case against the perpetrator slowly moves forward. Although her family modified the home to make it more secure and less vulnerable to intrusion, her current lack of mobility is weighing heavily on her psychologically. Despite her current issues, Jean derives great comfort from her faith as a devout Catholic. She typically has a wonderful sense of humor and is highly organized, having worked as an elementary school teacher during her earlier years. She participates regularly in the local garden club and on her neighborhood welcoming committee. She has a wide circle of friends with whom she interacts. Her children are currently staying in Manchester to oversee her care and to contribute to the development of her post-discharge care plan. It is unclear whether any of the children will stay on after her discharge to help care for Jean, but this seems unlikely unless considered essential by the medical team. An interdisciplinary team is being developed to design a comprehensive plan for Jean’s post-discharge care.