Navigating social needs, connecting families with practical resources

Health-related challenges can affect more than a person’s physical condition, particularly when an illness, disability, or change in circumstances creates concerns involving family support, community resources, emotional adjustment, or practical needs. Medical social services provide professional social work support to individuals and families who may need help addressing these non-clinical factors as part of their home healthcare experience. This may be relevant when a person or family is trying to understand available community resources, adjust to changes associated with illness, or address social circumstances affecting their ability to manage care at home. For individuals in Arlington County, these services can help address practical and social concerns within the context of the person’s home-based care.

How It Works

Medical social services may address areas such as:

Support with adjustment to illness, disability, or changes in circumstances

Assistance identifying appropriate community and social resources

Information about services and programs that may relate to the individual’s situation

Support with family or caregiver concerns related to care

Assistance addressing social or practical barriers affecting home-based care

Guidance with planning for changing personal or family circumstances

What to Expect

A medical social worker meets with the individual and, when appropriate, family members to discuss concerns that may affect their ability to manage circumstances at home. The social worker may provide information, discuss practical options, and help the individual understand resources that may be relevant to their situation. Follow-up may occur as needed while the service is being provided, particularly when circumstances change or additional social support needs arise.

Find the Right Support at Home

Reach out to discuss the type of home-based support that may fit your circumstances and daily routines. We can talk through your needs, questions, and the services that may be relevant to your situation.