Providing Supportive Services to the Frail Elderly in Federally Assisted Housing: Urban Institute Report 89-2 : Book Review

"Providing Supportive Services to the Frail Elderly in Federally Assisted Housing" is a valuable guide written by Raymond J. Struyk that explores the challenges and strategies involved in delivering essential support to elderly individuals living in government-assisted housing. This comprehensive book sheds light on various programs and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for this vulnerable population, providing practical insights for policymakers, service providers, and advocates.

Struyk begins by examining the unique needs and characteristics of the elderly population residing in federally assisted housing, emphasizing the importance of understanding their diverse backgrounds and circumstances. He highlights the challenges they face, such as limited mobility, chronic health conditions, and social isolation, and demonstrates how supportive services can effectively address these issues.

Throughout the book, Struyk discusses different types of services that can be provided to the frail elderly, including healthcare coordination, home care assistance, social and recreational activities, and mental health support. He offers real-life examples and case studies to illustrate the successful implementation of these programs and explores various funding options available to support these initiatives.

One of the strengths of this book is its focus on the policy implications of providing supportive services to the frail elderly. Struyk analyzes the regulatory structures and funding mechanisms that enable the delivery of such services and provides recommendations for improving and expanding these programs. He also addresses potential challenges and barriers that policymakers may encounter and suggests possible solutions to overcome them.

In conclusion, "Providing Supportive Services to the Frail Elderly in Federally Assisted Housing" is a comprehensive and informative resource for anyone involved in the care and support of elderly individuals in government-assisted housing. Struyk's expertise and in-depth analysis make this book invaluable for policymakers, service providers, and researchers seeking to better understand and address the needs of this vulnerable population.

What are readers saying?

Raymond J. Struyk's book titled "Providing Supportive Services to the Frail Elderly in Federally Assisted Housing" has received a variety of reviews. The book offers insights into the provision of services for elderly residents in federally assisted housing, with a specific focus on their unique needs and challenges.

Some readers found the book to be an invaluable resource, praising Struyk's detailed analysis and comprehensive approach. They appreciated the author's thorough exploration of the topic and his deep understanding of the complexities involved in providing support to elderly individuals. The book was considered informative and insightful, offering practical solutions and recommendations for enhancing service delivery.

However, other reviewers expressed disappointment with the book's content and presentation. They felt that Struyk's writing style was dry and academic, making it difficult to engage with the material. Some readers also noted that the book was repetitive at times and lacked a cohesive structure, which could have made it more accessible and compelling.

Critiques were also raised regarding the book's relevance in today's context. Some readers felt that it was outdated and failed to adequately address the current challenges faced by frail elderly individuals in federally assisted housing. They argued that the book needed to incorporate more recent research and case studies to make it more applicable and insightful.

Additionally, some reviewers criticized the book for its lack of concrete examples and practical strategies. They felt that it primarily focused on theoretical discussions and lacked specific guidance for effectively implementing supportive services. As a result, readers found it challenging to translate the concepts into real-life scenarios.

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