Blog Theme - 05

Quoting a relevant example in todays live context we could describe TikTok Campaign against substance abuse platform. A tiktok profile dedicated to addressing the substance abuse and addiction issues among young people in Finalnd. The profile features short, engaging videos that creates awareness about the consequences of substance abuse, provide tips for eradicating addiction, and promote healthier lifestyle the content includes personal stories, expert advice and interactive challenges aimed at encouraging young people to reflect on their behaviors and seek help if needed.

The ways in means of reaching the target group: TikTok's algorithm-driven content distribution to reach a wide audience of young people aged 15-25 they use trending hashtags in relation to substance abuse, addiction recovery, and mental health to increase the visibility of their videos Additionally, they collaborate with popular TikTok influencers who have a large following among the target demography and thereby amplifying their message and expanding their reach

 

Another example could be illustrated as Instagram Live Sessions for Peer Support Platform: Instagram Profile: Instagram profile that organizes live sessions and Q&A sessions to address bullying among young people in Finland is another example that we can describe to the related topic. They invite psychologists, educators, and peer mentors to participate in these sessions, providing professional and expert advice, sharing personal experiences, and offering practical strategies for dealing with bullying. The profile also features testimonials from bullying survivors and success stories of individuals who have recovered or overcomes  bullying and rebuilt their confidence.

How They Reach the Target Group: Instagram's live feature to engage directly with young people in real-time, allowing them to ask questions, share their experiences, and seek advice in a safe and supportive environment. They promote their live sessions through Instagram stories, posts, and collaborations with other anti-bullying organizations and influencers. By leveraging Instagram's visual content format and interactive features, they create a sense of community and solidarity among young people affected by bullying.

But the power of digital activism doesn't stop with organized profiles. Young people themselves are becoming agents of change, using platforms like YouTube, Twitter, and Snapchat to amplify their voices and advocate for social justice. Whether it's through vlogs, tweets, or Snapchat stories, they are sparking conversations, challenging norms, and mobilizing their peers to address issues that affect their lives.

As we look to the future of social work in Europe, it's clear that digital platforms will play an increasingly vital role in engaging and empowering young people. By harnessing the reach and accessibility of social media, we can create inclusive spaces where youth voices are heard, valued, and empowered to drive meaningful change in their communities

 

 

 BLOG THEME 7 : Digital Media for Elderly People 

Sociological study on the digital gap has undoubtedly been extensive, especially when it comes to elderly individuals' use of digital and social media platforms. Research suggests that a significant percentage of the elderly population, particularly those 75 years of age and above, may encounter difficulties adopting and utilizing technological advances. This may lead to opinions of isolation and detachment from the community at large, specifically because an increasing number of social contacts and services are taking place online.
Research conducted in this field of study generally examines how seniors' social networks, access to knowledge, and overall health are impacted by digital isolation. Studies can additionally look at programs or interventions intended to close the technology gap and enhance older people's digital literacy.

In today's digital-centric culture, it is imperative to take seriously the implications of digital exclusion for seniors, as it may aggravate pre-existing social inequalities and restrict access to opportunities and crucial services. As a result, resolving this issue is essential to encouraging social inclusion and guaranteeing older individuals' complete participation in modern digital services and surroundings.

Online services contain a wide range of services, such as government services, banking, social networking, retail, and healthcare consultations. However, senior citizens' access to these services, specifically those 75 years of age and above, can differ. Some seniors may be able to use these services on their own because they have the technical skills needed, but others may have difficulties because of age-related impairments, limited internet connection, or a lack of digital literacy. For instance, older people may find it difficult to use telehealth services because of their inability to use digital interfaces, which can make it difficult to make appointments or get in connection with healthcare providers. In addition to removing technological obstacles, improving the accessibility of internet services for seniors also entails creating platforms that meet their varied needs and skill levels.

 

 

 

Theme – 8

1.   Digital Transformation of my previous working place

Overview:- 

The case study delves into the digital transformation journey of a the no.1 Insurance Company in Sri Lanka. Rated AA+. The company operates as two separate conglomerates primarily focusing on life and General insurance. It underscores the adoption of cutting-edge technologies across various functions, including management tools such as the Management Information System (MIS), SAP for accounting, and the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system for administration and HR.

Key Technologies Used in Operations

1. Integration of ERP System for operations: - From attendance tracking to resignation processes, the company operates entirely through an ERP system, eliminating the need for paper-based operations. This enhances efficiency and streamlines HR processes.
2. Utilization of SAP for Accounting: - The company employs SAP for accounting, seamlessly integrated with the payment system. This ensures accuracy and efficiency in financial operations.
3. Digital Board Meeting: - Board meetings are conducted online using tablets provided to directors. Documents are uploaded online, and decisions are disseminated through the company's intranet. This facilitates efficient communication and decision-making, particularly beneficial for a geographically dispersed network of branches.

 

Communication Strategy

 

1. Intranet/email s primary communication channel: - Email/Intranet serves as the primary mode of communication for employees, including office assistants.

 

2. Digital Notice Boards: - Internal communication is facilitated through the company's intranet, managed by the IT department. Digital Notice boards are displayed utilized for specific announcements within the head office premises.

 

3. Social Media during Pandemic :- Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, social media, particularly WhatsApp groups, played a crucial role in communication and operational continuity. Digital channels were instrumental in facilitating insurance claim processes and maintaining seamless operations.

 

Impact of Social Media

 

1. Enhance Communication through social media: - Social media accelerates the flow of information, enabling remote collaboration and faster decision-making. This results in increased efficiency and improved service standards.

 

2. Organizational Culture Fit:-The incorporation of social media has transformed the organizational culture, enabling faster communication and decision-making. However, challenges such as productivity loss due to uncontrolled social media usage during office hours have been addressed through restrictions.

 

Risk Management Impact

 

1. Balancing Human Aspects and Technological Intervention

There is a risk of losing the human touch during technological interventions, particularly in customer interactions. Incorrect information input may also impact the accuracy of outcomes, affecting profitability.

Conclusion: - The case study highlights the significant impact of digital transformation, particularly the integration of ERP systems and social media, on the operations and culture of an insurance company. While these technologies enhance efficiency and communication, they also present challenges that require proactive risk management strategies. Overall, embracing digitalization is essential for staying competitive and meeting evolving customer needs in the insurance industry.

 

 

 

 

Link:-

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2014.08.192

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1877042814048769

 

2. Social Media and Organizational Communication

The following scholar article of social media and Communication - by Marius Badea in 2014 is closely matching with the strategic alignment on how social media influence the communication in an organization and how does it strategically could be managed.

 

The article further elaborates whether all companies should use social media and if proactive strategies are necessary for utilizing these platforms depends on various factors as specified below with the breakdown drawn from considerations and conclusions.

Target Audience: - It clearly states that it is important to the companies should assess whether their target audience is active on social media platforms. (e.g., rural aging population), investing heavily in social media might not be effective for product promotion.

 

Strategic Alignment:- Botezatu suggests that companies should adopt a proactive social media strategy only if it helps fulfill a strategic goal. The strategy should align with the broader company objectives and communication strategy.

 

Collaborative Strategy Implementation: - Social media strategy development can involve various departments, including marketing, sales, and communication. However, it's recommended to have a mix of professionals from the communication department and possibly external communication agencies for new companies.

 

Management Involvement:- Top management should be involved in overseeing social media strategy implementation and monitoring results. Social media channels are not just communication tools but also avenues for customer engagement.

 

Performance Matrix:- Key performance indicators (KPIs) for social media should be set based on communication and business goals. These metrics can include both qualitative indicators like community involvement and quantitative indicators like the number of followers and interaction rates.

 

Resource Allocation: - While the physical costs of implementing social media may be lower, human resource costs can be significant. Professional involvement is necessary for achieving desired results, and costs depend on communication objectives and activities.

 

Steps for online communication: -Online communication strategy, including setting short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals, selecting appropriate communication channels, establishing work policies, creating an editorial plan, implementing strategies, and continuously monitoring performance

 

Internal Organizational Benefits:- Social media can contribute to various internal organizational dimensions, including improving communication processes, community development, facilitating information flow, promoting values, consolidating organizational culture, and stimulating creativity and collective intelligence under optimal conditions.

In summary, while social media adoption and proactive strategies are not universally applicable to all companies, their implementation should be based on careful consideration of target audience, strategic alignment, collaborative strategy building, management involvement, performance metrics, resource allocation, and internal organizational benefits.

 

 

 

 

 

Digital Media for Elderly People

Irrespective of age differences Digital media has become increasingly accessible to elderly people. Although there is a gap between younger and older generations in terms of adoption and proficiency, research shows a steady increase in internet usage among seniors, with approximately 73% of adults aged 65 and older reported using the internet in 2021, compared to just 14% in 2000. This indicates a growing trend towards digital integration among older adults.

Various online services cater specifically to the needs and interests of elderly individuals, addressing areas such as healthcare, finance, social connectivity, education, and entertainment. These services include telehealth platforms for remote medical consultations, online banking for managing finances, social networking sites for staying connected with family and friends, educational resources for lifelong learning, and entertainment platforms for streaming content.

Ensuring the accessibility of these services to the elderly population involves considerations such as user-friendly interfaces, clear navigation, and tailored support mechanisms. Platforms like AARP's website serve as examples of online resources designed with seniors in mind, offering easily navigable content and relevant resources covering a range of topics pertinent to older adults.

Conducting and facilitating interviews with elderly individuals provides valuable insights into their attitudes towards digital services, their experiences with using digital technologies, and their specific needs in this regard. By exploring their current level of familiarity with digital technologies, their experiences with using digital services, and their attitudes towards these technologies, we can gain a deeper understanding of their perspectives and identify areas where further support or intervention may be needed.

All in all, digital media presents opportunities for elderly people to enhance their quality of life, access information and services, and stay connected with others. Bridging the digital divide requires ongoing efforts to make digital technologies more accessible, user-friendly, and inclusive for older adults, ensuring that they can fully participate in the digital age.

 

Social medias impact on elderly

 

                                           Social medias impact on elderly        

It can be hard for older people to keep up with the changes in technology these days. I can totally agree with them, because even I, as a young adult can't keep up with the changes.😃

Loneliness is a common feeling among elderly. I think that social media can help with that. It is easy to interact with peers and loved ones these days, thanks to technology and social media.

Feeling connected is very important to any senior’s wellbeing. Social media allows the senior to make plans with others to meet up outside of the home. It also allows seniors who are unable to leave home to socialize online to combat loneliness.

I found this research online that said that social media can reduce the risk of depression for older people with pain.

"Among people with pain, the rate of depression was lower with social media use. Six percent of those who used social media also reported symptoms of depression, compared with 15 percent of those who didn't use social media."
Downsides of social media for elderly?

Financial Scams

These type of scams are super common and elderly are at a high risk of falling for a message, e-mail or advertisement asking for money, particularly if it pretends to be from a family member or loved one. 

Misinformation and Propaganda

I have seen many misinformative things when surfing on the internet. Seniors should be aware that certain headlines can be false or inaccurate. Major news networks and political figures can send information to support their respective causes and beliefs, but individuals need to determine between news that is helpful and objective versus biased and deceitful.

Anxiety and Lowered Self-Esteem

In Social media it is easy to fake your life experiences and make it seem like you are the happiest, most beautiful and important person alive. Social media platforms, like Facebook, can cause seniors to have false illusions that other people are happier or more fulfilled than them. They can compare themselves to others, witch can lead to anxiety, depression and lowered self-esteem.

References

https://www.visitingangels.com/knowledge-center/senior-health-and-well-being/social-media-impact-on-seniors/525

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-seniors-social-media/social-media-may-reduce-depression-risk-for-older-people-with-pain-idUSKCN1MK2LN/

Adult Social Work in Digital Media - Support for those with substance abuse / addiction (Part 7)

Social workers can connect with people who struggle with addiction or substance abuse by establishing official pages or profiles on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, or Wikipedia. We can inform people about addiction, share our own recovery stories, and offer support and validation to those in need through frequent posts, live streaming, or online support groups. We can additionally provide individualized support, treatment service referrals, and crisis intervention by interacting with them through chat or private messaging, which builds rapport and trust.

Moreover, it is critical to distribute instructional materials and fact-based information regarding addiction through digital media. We may dispel rumors and misunderstandings about addiction while encouraging ways to reduce harm and increasing public knowledge of the risks of substance usage by creating multimedia content like data visualizations, webinars, and videos. Furthermore, by working together with addiction experts, medical professionals, and recovery advocates, we can ensure that online resources meet the different needs of those looking for support for drug-related problems and are accurate, current, and culturally sensitive.

 

Furthermore, by utilizing the dynamic and interactive features of digital media platforms, we can help people in recovery establish peer support groups and participate with the community. Through the creation of online forums, virtual support groups, or recovery-focused social media campaigns, we may establish secure and welcoming environments where people can open up about their experiences, look for guidance, and receive support and encouragement from like-minded individuals. Furthermore, we can enable people to explore online support resources ethically and successfully by teaching digital literacy skills and online safety practices. This will improve their resilience and self-efficacy in their recovery process.

 

Elders in the digital world

 

With the aging of the population and the rapid growth of mobile technology the needs and preferences of older adults as users of digital technologies have garnered increasing interest worldwide over years. 
From the statistics of Finland, those aged 75 to 89 by seven percentage points. The share of Internet users of the population grew by two percentage points from the previous year to 92 per cent. These data appear from Statistics Finland's 2020 survey on use of information and communications technology by individuals. 
There are many services available for elders, such as E-commerce platforms like Amazon and grocery delivery services make it easier for seniors to shop for necessities without leaving home. What’s more, there are numerous apps designed to promote physical and mental well-being, including fitness trackers, meditation guides, and symptom checkers. Besides, E-readers like Kindle and platforms such as Apple Books and Google Play Books provide seniors with access to a vast selection of books and magazines. This can be particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues who may find it challenging to visit libraries or bookstores.
However, some research has pointed out that there are many challenges for elders when they are accessing to the digital world and the new digital tools is not designed for the elders, older adults might perceive more risks in purchasing online, such as financial risks or risks related to payment or online security. Social influence and social networks affect the skills required to access these technologies.
Obviously, digital learning and safety issues shall be concerned for elders, when I talked with my grandpa, who is more than 80 year-old now, found it is very difficult to get used to the new apps, he is always forget the steps of instructions, and he is afraid of buying stuffs from online shops, he worried that he might be tracked by someone else when purchased. So my sister in law have to be a helper and guide, my grandpa can ask for help whenever he met difficulties.

Resources:

1. https://www.stat.fi/til/sutivi/2020/sutivi_2020_2020-11-10_tie_001_en.html

2. This is an electronic reprint of the original article. This reprint may differ from the original in pagination and typographic detail. 

Adult social work against substance abuse / addiction in digital media environment

 

Nuortenlinkki (Youth Link)

Nuortenlinkki is a website for young people with themes such as intoxicants or substance abuse, gaming, internet use, depression, sexuality, bullying and much more

SEKASIN - chat

Sekasin chat is a nationwide, widely open chat service for 12–29-year-olds that supports mental well-being and coping with mental health problems. The service is free, anonymous and confidential.

A-klinikka.fi

A-Clinics are part of Finland's public healthcare system and provide various services related to substance abuse. They offer outpatient treatment, counseling, and rehabilitation programs. They also have a digital presence, offering information and support online.

EHYT.FI

They offer activities and services for children, young people and their parents, as well as students, people of working age and the elderly. Their goal is to promote well-being by reducing the harmful effects of substance abuse and gambling.

Päihdelinkki.fi

This is a service that provides information and support for individuals dealing with substance abuse issues, as well as for their families and friends.

Päihdeneuvonta

You can call them, they are dedicated to providing information and support for individuals dealing with substance abuse. It is also free.

MIELI Mental Health Finland

They promote mental health and tries to prevent mental health issues.

References:

Etusivu - Nuortenlinkki - Nuortenlinkki

Sekasin247 | Sekasin-chat // sekasin247.fi

Päihde- ja mielenterveyspalveluja vastuullisesti | A-klinikka.fi

Ehkäistään päihde- ja peliongelmia jo ennen kuin ne syntyvät | Ehkäisevä päihdetyö EHYT ry

Etusivu - Päihdelinkki (paihdelinkki.fi)

Päihdeneuvonta: Maksutonta tukea päihteidenkäytön aiheuttamaan huoleen - EHYT ry

What does MIELI Mental Health Finland do? - MIELI

Senior Communities Using Social Media: The Significance of Virtual Education and Awareness Against Scams

  

A study done by OnePoll for ClearMatch Medicare in 2023 found that many seniors are most interested in health-related content online (46%). The survey asked 2,000 seniors who use social media about their habits and found they spend about 47 minutes each day on these sites.

 

Almost a quarter of them spend more than an hour daily scrolling (24%). Seniors mostly use Facebook (75%), YouTube (28%), and Instagram (10%).

 

Half of them use social media just to pass the time (54%), while others use it to reconnect with friends (61%) or stay in touch with family (58%). Surprisingly, nearly four in 10 seniors (39%) have even made new friends online.

 

In my personal experience, I have observed a significant interest among elderly individuals in engaging with social media platforms and learning new technological tools. Within my own family, I have witnessed individuals aged over 65 embracing a positive attitude towards social media, demonstrating a curiosity and eagerness to explore the digital realm. 

While this enthusiasm is commendable, it is important to be mindful of certain challenges, one of which is the potential exposure to online scams. 

 

Font:Freepik.com

Elderly individuals may not always be fully aware of the prevalence and variety of scams that can occur in the online space. This lack of familiarity with the intricacies of online security could make them more susceptible to deceptive practices. 

Font: Freepik.com

As we encourage and support older adults in their exploration of technology, it becomes equally important to educate them about online safety measures.

 This could involve providing guidance on recognizing and avoiding scams, emphasizing the importance of secure passwords, and fostering an overall awareness of digital security best practices. By doing so, we can help ensure that their positive engagement with social media is accompanied by a robust understanding of potential risks, ultimately empowering them to navigate the digital landscape with confidence and security.

How to reach young people in social media as a social worker?

 

In this post, I will be giving you tips how to reach young people better in social media as a social worker😊

TIP 1 - VISUALS

The first step is to use appealing images and videos to get the attention of young people. Good visuals are a good way to maintain people's interest.

TIP 2 - CREATE ENGAGING CONTENT

Young people often face a lot of challenges, including mental health issues, academic stress, peer pressure, bullying, substance abuse, and more. Social workers can create content that addresses these issues directly, providing information, guidance, and support. Young people are more likely to engage with content that feels authentic and relatable.

TIP 3 - ENGAGING INFLUENCERS

It is a good idea to collaborate with influencers young people relate to. These influencers can help amplify messages and reach a wider audience.

TIP 4 - PROVIDE SUPPORT AND RESOURCES

Social media is a great place to teach young people about the support and help they can get if needed. You can tell them about support hotlines, counseling services, and other relevant information that young people may find helpful.

TIP 5 - REMEMBER TO CREATE A SAFE PLACE

It is important to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where young people feel comfortable discussing their challenges, seeking advice, and sharing their experiences can encourage participation and interaction.

references;

What teens post on social media | Pew Research Center

How to Engage Young People in Social Impact Using Social Media (linkedin.com)

 

BLOG THEME 5: How do social workers reach young people in social media?

 

Social workers utilize several methods to communicate with youth on social media platforms. First, they understand how important it is to connect with youngsters where they are, which frequently but not requires online. Establishing a presence in places frequented by young people, they develop official profiles or pages on significant social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and Snapchat.

When social workers are on these platforms, they use a variety of strategies to engage young people. They may share vital information about relationships among peers, mental health, wellbeing, and other important topics in ways that appeal to young people by utilizing multimedia content.

 

Social professionals are also involved in online forums and groups that are related to the interests and concerns of youth. They engage websites or communities where young people gather to talk about challenges, interests, or similar experiences. Social workers show that they are willing to listen, offer support, and provide helpful resources or guidance when needed by taking part in these discussions.

Social professionals also understand how critical it is to create a secure and encouraging online community. To keep their social media platforms welcoming and harassment- and bullying-free, they set explicit rules for polite discourse and moderation. Social workers help young people engage honestly and ask for help when they need it by fostering a sense of security and trust.

If reducing bullying is the aim, I would choose a platform that promotes community development, the sharing of instructional materials, and active moderation to foster a secure and encouraging atmosphere. A social media group or specialized online forum devoted to bullying prevention and support could be an appropriate venue for this kind of activity.

Creating communities on a site like Reddit or Discord where people can ask questions, share stories, and get materials about bullying prevention and intervention could be useful. These platforms come with features like threaded discussions, tools for moderating, and the capacity to build private or public groups based on interests or requirements.

 

 

Employment and career services and support for the unemployed in Finland

Different countries have different employment services for individuals, and Finland does as well. digital media plays a significant role in providing employment and career services. Here are some ways digital platforms are utilized for this purpose There are some resources available for employment and career services in Finland. Some examples are shown below.

TE Services (Työ- ja elinkeinopalvelut): TE Services is a national network of public employment and business services in Finland. The TE Services website offers a comprehensive online portal where individuals can search for job vacancies, create and upload their CVs, and receive information about various training and educational opportunities. This platform also provides access to webinars, workshops, and e-learning courses on topics such as job-seeking skills, career development, and entrepreneurship.

Universities and Vocational Institutions: Many universities and vocational institutions in Finland offer career counseling services to their students and alumni. These services may include assistance with job searching, CV and cover letter writing, interview preparation, and networking opportunities.

Job fairs and career expos are increasingly being hosted online, allowing participants to interact with employers, attend workshops and presentations, and submit job applications without the need for physical attendance. These virtual events offer a convenient way for job seekers to explore employment opportunities and network with potential employers from anywhere with an internet connection.

Digital media provides a convenient and accessible platform for individuals in Finland to access employment and career services, connect with potential employers, and enhance their job search and career development efforts.

Adult Social Work in Digital Media - Services for Immigrants - (Part -3)

 

Exploring new horizons to support immigrants and adults through Digital Media

One could say that adequate digital platforms are available to support immigrants in Finland. However, majority still rely on physical and human integration to support immigrants which still seems comfortable. Many Digital platforms right away from registrations of immigrants are in place in Finland, and the social progress, continually evoking to meet the dire needs of its diverse population. Moreover, with the rapid increasing of immigrants and the growing prevalence of digital media, the landscape of social work in Finland is undergoing transformative changes highlighting the efforts of social workers to assist immigrants and adults through digital media platforms.

There are institutes that supports immigrants settle down in Finland. General guidance would be provided by the local authorities. Health Services, Advice and guidance crisis counselling and emergency, Disability Services, Mental Health Services, Services for Children, Youth and families are some of the services of the local authorities and non-profit authorities are providing. For example Finnish Immigrations Services (Migri), Local Municipalities, Kela, International House and TE Office, Finnish Red Cross and Education Providers. and institutes such as Keusote provide many services covering all necessities to immigrants.

The integration and inclusion of new immigrants to the society finds it more challenging but creates opportunities as well. In recent past Finland has witnessed a significant rise in immigration and social workers have been in the forefront of providing essential support to immigrants as they direct the complexities of settling into a new society. Services like assisting with access to healthcare and education to offering counseling services for cultural adjustment, social workers play a essential role in facilitating the integration process.

Example: - A comprehensive assistance granted to immigrants to find employment opportunities by International House whilst providing vital information with the assistance to reach employers through Digital Platforms instantly.

Moreover, advocacy is another component that remains as a cornerstone of social work in Finland, with professionals actively working to address systemic barriers and promote inclusive policies. Through collaboration with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and grassroots initiatives, social workers advocate for the rights and well-being of immigrant communities, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

In parallel, the digital transformation has opened up new pathways for social work practice, particularly in engaging and supporting adults facing various challenges. With the widespread use of digital media platforms, social workers in Finland make use of the power of technology to reach and connect with their clients in innovative ways.

In a nutshell, from virtual counseling sessions to online support, social workers are leveraging digital media to provide support groups to informative websites and mobile applications, accessible and tailored services to adults in need. Moreover, digital platforms offer opportunities for advocacy and awareness-raising on social issues, accommodating the voices of marginalized and immigrants to drive a positive change.

In conclusion, Finland embraces the digital age and continues to support whist welcoming the immigrants across the world. Hence, the role of social work in supporting vulnerable populations has never been more crucial. By integrating digital media into their practice, social workers are not only expanding access to services but also fostering a more inclusive and connected society. As we look to the future, it is clear that the synergy between social work, immigration support, and digital media will play a pivotal role in shaping Finland's social landscape for generations to come.

 

References:-

Keusote. (n.d.). Service for Immigrants. Retrieved from https://www.keusote.fi/en/servicedirectory/service-for-immigrants/

 

Finnish Immigration Service. (n.d.). Home. Retrieved from

https://migri.fi/en/home

Using Digital Media in Adult Social Work (PART 5): Working with Persons with Disabilities

Radhipa Fiona Perera on 11 March 2024

In today's world, technology is changing how we live and interact with each other. This is also true for adult social work, especially in helping people with disabilities. This blog post is Part 5 of a series that looks at how adult social work and digital media come together. We'll look at examples from Finland and other places to see how digital tools and online methods are being used to support people with disabilities.

Finnish Pioneers in Digital Social Work

Helsinki's Inclusive Employment Program

The city of Helsinki is leading the way in using digital media to help people with disabilities find jobs. Their Inclusive Employment Program uses social media campaigns and online training to match these individuals with the right job opportunities. This program is a great example of how digital media can be used to include more people and overcome obstacles to getting a job.

International Best Practices

UK's Accessible Technology Solutions

Across the seas, the United Kingdom has been using digital media to provide accessible technology solutions for persons with disabilities. They have websites with learning tools that can be adjusted to meet different needs and online groups where people can get support. The work in the UK shows how digital media can be changed and used in many ways to help people with different needs.

Client Work Methods in the Digital Sphere

1. Virtual Counseling Sessions

Digital media enables social workers to conduct virtual counseling sessions, ensuring accessibility and convenience for clients with disabilities. Video conferencing platforms facilitate meaningful interactions, fostering a supportive environment. 

More information on:  How to Make Your Virtual Meetings and Events Accessible to the Disability Community

2. Online Skill Development

Interactive online platforms provide tailored skill development programs for individuals with disabilities. From language courses to vocational training, these digital tools empower clients to enhance their abilities from the comfort of their homes.

3. Community Building Through Social Media

Social media platforms serve as powerful tools for building supportive communities. Online forums and groups connect individuals with disabilities, fostering a sense of belonging and enabling the exchange of valuable insights and resources.

Theoretical Framework and Research Insights

Research in digital social work emphasizes the importance of personalized and adaptable interventions. The Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) model, often used in social work, can be effectively applied in the digital realm. Understanding the unique needs of each client and tailoring digital interventions accordingly ensures a holistic approach.

Moreover, studies show that integrating assistive technologies and applications can significantly enhance the independence and quality of life for persons with disabilities. From voice recognition software to augmented reality tools, these technologies open new avenues for social work professionals to address specific challenges faced by their clients.

As adult social work keeps changing, it's really important to use what digital media offers. Both the examples from Finland and other places show us how using digital tools can really help people with disabilities. When social workers use these new ideas, they can make places that include everyone and help people feel stronger. This makes life better for the people they help.