Stephen T. Moore

Psychiatric Symptoms and Help-Seeking Behavior Among the Elderly

This study of randomly selected black (N = 600) and white (N = 600) elderly individuals residing in Nashville, TN, ex- amines the relationship between psychiatric symptoms and utiliza- tion of both formal and informal resources of help among the black and white elderly. Relevant data were collected through face-to-face interviews with the elderly living either in their own homes or in the high-rise apartments for the elderly. Analyses of data show that significantly greater proporlions of the elderly with psychiatric symptoms in both samples use mental health professionals. Mental health services, however, were less frequently used as compared to the family physician or seeing the clergyman. Furthermore, in both samples, help from clergy, fnends/relatives or praying frequently was higher among the females than males. The elderly males tended to use drinking more than usual and going out for long walks as coping mechanisms. A discussion of these fmdings is provided.

Three fundamentals of service quality in welfare reform

Public health and welfare organizations must move toward a service-oriented strategy that embodies many of the quality principles that are assuming growing importance in the private sector. This article explores some of the limitations on reform of welfare and service quality. It explores three approaches that are fundamental to bringing about the change in organizational culture on which actual reform must rest.

Organizational and Managerial Supports for Service Quality in Health and Human Services

Case management is a practice approach that is structured by the administrative configuration of the service delivery system. It involves personal relationships between direct service workers and clients and technical support of information and resource systems. Supervision in case management systems should focus on supporting those who work most closely with clients. Upper level management should focus on assisting supervisory staff in developing problem-solving skills.