Why Having a Social Worker Matters for Older Adults Receiving Home Health Care

As more older adults choose to age in place, having the right kind of support at home becomes essential, not just for safety, but for peace of mind. Home health aides (HHAs) are a huge part of that support system, helping with everything from daily routines to medication reminders. But there’s another piece to the puzzle that can make a big difference: a dedicated social worker.

Adding a social worker to the care team might not be the first thing people think of, but it can really change the game when it comes to aging well at home.

A Broader View of Care

While HHAs focus on physical care, social workers take a step back and look at the bigger picture. They think about how someone’s living situation, family dynamics, emotional health, and even financial stress might be impacting their overall well-being. With that wider lens, they can spot challenges that might otherwise go unnoticed—and find ways to deal with them early on.

That means fewer surprises down the road and care that actually fits the person, not just their diagnosis.

Someone to Talk To

Getting older can sometimes feel isolating, especially for people who live alone or are dealing with health changes. Social workers are trained to recognize when someone might be struggling emotionally and can step in to offer support. Whether it’s checking in for a chat, connecting them to a local senior center, or helping set up a visit with a therapist, they help older adults feel less alone and more connected.

Making Systems Less Complicated

Let’s be honest—figuring out insurance, benefits, or community services can be overwhelming. Social workers know the ins and outs of these systems and can help older adults (and their families) cut through the red tape. From applying for financial aid to signing up for meal delivery programs, they’re there to help make the process a little less stressful.

Keeping the Peace

Caring for a loved one at home can sometimes cause tension within families. Everyone wants what’s best, but opinions might not always line up. Social workers are great at stepping into those tricky conversations and helping everyone get on the same page. They’re not just there for the client—they’re a support for the whole family.

Looking Ahead

In addition to addressing immediate concerns, social workers are also skilled at helping families plan for the long term. Whether it’s discussing future housing options, arranging legal documentation like advance directives, or anticipating changes in care needs, they help create a roadmap for what’s ahead. They also connect clients with trusted community resources—everything from transportation services to caregiver support groups—so families don’t have to figure it all out on their own.

That kind of proactive planning brings peace of mind and helps prevent last-minute scrambles when needs change.

What COHME Does Differently

COHME (Concerned Home Managers for the Elderly) takes this approach to heart. Based in New York City, COHME is a nonprofit home health care agency that pairs every client with a licensed social worker—at no extra charge. That’s not something you see every day.

From the very first visit, COHME’s social workers are hands-on. They help create personalized care plans alongside nurses and HHAs, and they stick around, staying involved as needs change. Whether it’s helping a family navigate a tough decision or checking in on a lonely afternoon, they’re there to make life a little easier.

Having a social worker involved in home care isn’t just a nice bonus—it’s a smart move. They bring a level of support that goes beyond the basics, helping older adults feel heard, supported, and truly cared for. With COHME offering this service as part of every case, more families get the kind of well-rounded, thoughtful care they deserve.

Because growing older at home should come with more than just help—it should come with heart.