Identifying and meeting the needs of older male members of the Society of Christian Doctrine : Dar il-Ħanin Samaritan

Abstract

This long essay is concerned with identifying and meeting the needs of a particular homogeneous older male group. Constituting almost a quarter of the Society of Christian Doctrine membership, they commit themselves to follow its rules. Especially, the two rules most known amongst the Maltese population, their commitment in living a celibate life, and their daily involvement in teaching the catechism to adults and children. The author, as an S.D.C. member, and also working in the recently opened home for the Society's older male members, wanted to focus his study around Dar il-Ħanin Samaritan in fulfilling their needs. Thus the physical, psychological and social needs of old people are first identified through the help of various literature. Important issues about residential group living are also presented assisted by the studies performed by leading American authors. This is also followed briefly by the residential social worker's role. Then, particular important aspects of the member's lifestyle are highlighted, and finally compared to the Maltese older population using demographic studies. The final part of the long essay focuses on the study conducted by the author amongst twelve older members coming from three different living backgrounds. He compares and discusses the data results of the semi-structured interviews to examine how particular identified needs of those living inside D.H.S., those in other homes or institutions, and those living alone are being or could be met at Dar il-Ħanin Samaritan. Based on the findings the author presents his recommendations and conclusions. He also adds his own personal observations and the respondents suggestions. Through this study he wanted to question, and to a certain level answer, to what extent S.D.C. members could benefit when they decide to live their final years, before their demise, inside Dar il-Ħanin Samaritan.