Susan Katz at age six with parents. Photo courtesy of New York Times.

Susan Katz is a trained social worker in New Jersey and worked for home care agencies and assisted and independent living facilities.

Despite her experience, Katz said finding care for her aging parents was not easy, according to this very personal and moving  New York Times article.

“My blind spot was, I didn’t recognize that family members are not like clients,” Katz wrote.

Social workers often help people and families deal with aging. To find out more, visit the National Association of Social Workers “Help Starts Here” Seniors and Aging Web page.

And we would like for you to comment on this question:

Q: Do you think your social work background makes it easier for you to care for and find services for aging parents, relatives or friends? Or is it still difficult to maintain your professional objectivity when dealing with family and friends?