Forms and methods of social and psychological work with the elderly

The relevance of social work with the elderly is increasing in the conditions of rapid aging of the population and demographic changes in Ukraine and the world. Every year, the number of older people is increasing, which makes new challenges to the social assistance system. Older people often face health, isolation, financial difficulties and lack of social contacts that require specialized support. Social work with this category of population is important not only for ensuring their physical well -being, but also for improving the psychological state, preserving dignity and active life. Given the tendency to reduce the number of families ready to support their elderly relatives, social work becomes critical for organizing assistance through institutions, social services and volunteer organizations. The article considers the basic forms and methods of social assistance used to improve the quality of life of older persons. Among the main forms of social assistance are: forms of financial assistance to the elderly, which include financial support (pensions, subsidies), food, medical products, assistance in the form of clothing, shoes and household goods. And forms of intangible care include psychological support, organization of cultural and social measures, social integration, counseling, providing access to medical and social services, volunteer support. Laws are the basis for providing both material and intangible care for the elderly, as they regulate the rights and responsibilities of the state, social services and citizens. Laws, such as «On Social Services», «On Pension Support», «On the Fundamentals of Social Protection of Elderly», determine the mechanisms for providing financial support, access to medical and social services, as well as establish rules for the organization of social assistance at home. They guarantee the legal protection of the elderly, which is a prerequisite for ensuring their decent life and well -being. Particular attention is paid to social assistance projects aimed at improving the independence of the elderly, strengthening their social activity and ensuring worthy aging in modern Ukraine.