03/27/2026
As National Social Work Month comes to a close, we want to recognize the vital contributions of social workers to our patients, residents, and their families. While they are often seen as advocates, the breadth and impact of their work extend much further – reaching across all Hebrew SeniorLife campuses and into the homes of the people we serve.
At Hebrew Rehabilitation Center, social workers’ influence on patients and families is felt immediately, as they provide support during what can be a difficult transition into long-term chronic care.
“When someone enters long-term chronic care, it is often a very stressful transition for everyone involved, and social workers try to help the patient and family adjust in healthy ways to the situation. When we assess each person’s situation, we not only factor in the biological, social, and psychological issues that interact dynamically, but also consider how the family at home is managing the situation,” says Clinical Social Worker Julie Canfield, LICSW.
The team also engages patients and families in developing personalized care plans and guides them through the complexities of the care system, focusing on their unique needs and values.
“Our work brings to the forefront what matters most for patients, highlighting their unique personhood, and working to bridge any gaps to help them meet their needs and achieve their goals,” says Social Worker Ally Chironna, LCSW.
The hospice social work team focuses on educating families about the philosophy and benefits of hospice care, supporting patients throughout their hospice journey, and offering bereavement services. Social workers provide emotional support to patients, families, and caregivers, help identify and access resources, and facilitate family meetings to address end-of-life concerns and family dynamics. Bereavement support includes helping individuals navigate anticipatory grief, leading support groups, and coordinating annual memorial services.
In our affordable housing communities, the social work team is a crucial part of our Right Care, Right Time, Right Place (R3) resident services model, which brings together team members from multiple disciplines and professions to provide 360-degree support to residents. As R3 Executive Director Stephanie Small, MSW, says:
“Social workers are a vital part of the R3 team. Their expertise and training help build trust with residents, navigate complex situations, and assess needs with care and professionalism. Social work also brings a systems perspective that strengthens partnerships and helps ensure our work is meaningful and impactful.”
Our social workers are essential to our success as a care team and are often the unsung heroes of the excellent care we provide each day. This month and every month, we celebrate their incredible work and all they do for their colleagues, patients, residents, and families.
