Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) and Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS): Perspectives of Geriatric Social Workers

This study analyzed the perceptions of geriatric social workers, and others who work in behavioral or physical health care, about 6 of the largest services considered part of the system of long-term services and supports (LTSS). A survey was completed by 158 behavioral or physical health professionals; 47 of the respondents were geriatric social workers. The services and levels of preparedness of the nation, state, or local community were rated on a 5-point Likert-type scale. Generally, community-based services were rated as most effective, while institutional services were rated as somewhat more available. The study revealed different ratings for subgroups. Geriatric social workers who worked mainly in social services were significantly more optimistic about the level of preparedness and availability of services than clinical geriatric social workers. Correlation analysis found that perceptions of availability of community-based services correlated with expectations of infrastructure preparedness, suggesting a need for more services in the communities. Recommendations include expanding access to home and community-based supports. An analysis based on geography found that San Joaquin Valley respondents rated the availability of services lower. Valley respondents also had significantly less optimism in the ability of the state and local community to meet future needs, compared to the rest of California. Recommendations include addressing the inequality found in the San Joaquin Valley