Examined the efforts of relatives, friends, and professional caregivers in serving the homebound elderly. Results indicate that although the informal support network was perceived to be the preferable source of most home care aid, formal intervention was seen as best for housekeeping functions, specialized duties, and repetitive tasks for the…

Describes one social worker's attempt, through provision of group work services, to provide homebound people with a sense of self-actualization. Intercom systems are used increasingly in the area of education to reach homebound people. The lack of visual contact was not a barrier. Shared problems promoted effective group service. (Author/BEF)

Proposes that social workers have specialized, skilled roles in the home health care system and that future legislative and reimbursement patterns must reflect these skills. Concludes social workers can work autonomously within an interdisciplinary framework, with other members of the home-care team. (RC)