Strategi Dalam Menangani Kesejahteraan Lanjut Usia Terlantar (Studi Kasus: UPTD. Pelayanan Sosial Lanjut Usia Binjai Dinas Sosial Provinsi Sumatera Utara)

Abstract

The welfare of the displaced elderly is an important issue in social services, especially in local government institutions. UPTD Binjai Elderly Social Services is one of the institutions that plays a role in providing protection and services to the elderly who have no family or are abandoned. This study aims to analyze the strategies implemented by the Binjai Elderly Social Service Unit in dealing with the welfare of the abandoned elderly. This study aims to evaluate the implementation of strategies in improving the welfare of the abandoned elderly in the Binjai Elderly Social Service UPTD. The method used is a descriptive qualitative approach using the theory of John M. Bryson (2008), which consists of four main elements: input, strategic process, output, and outcome. Data was obtained through in-depth interviews, direct observations, and documentation in the field. This study uses a qualitative method with a descriptive approach. Data collection techniques are carried out through in-depth interviews, direct observation, and documentation. The informants consist of UPTD employees and elderly service recipients. The findings of the study show that service strategies have been implemented through various daily activities, meeting basic needs, as well as health and spiritual services. From the input aspect, UPTD already has an organizational structure and implementing personnel, but still faces obstacles such as limited budget, shortage of caregivers, and the absence of permanent medical personnel. The strategy process is running as planned, but it has not been maximized due to limited resources. The output produced includes the fulfillment of the basic needs of the elderly, even though services at night, elderly empowerment is not optimal, and facilities are still inadequate. Outcomes show an increase in the comfort of life of the elderly, but it does not fully reflect independence and psychological well-being. The results of this study are expected to be input for policy development and improvement of the quality of social services for the abandoned elderly.