Bridging the gap between the real and the ideal

This article's aim is to discuss the complexity of being a social-worker in homes for independent and frail elders in Israel, in terms of balancing between residents' needs and rights; safeguarding dignity, while preserving freedom of choice. Data were based on an empirical study in which 84 social-workers from 77 old age homes took part. Findings showed that the smaller the gap between real and ideal, the fewer the problems in job performance, the greater the perceived job appreciation, and the better the protection of residents’ rights. In addition, the gap was smaller in homes with available legal consultation, active residents' council; social-workers not employed elsewhere, and participated in relevant courses. The Discussion addresses the nature of the gap between real and ideal. The consequences of reducing the gap are revealed, relating to a more complex meaning of paternalism versus autonomy than the simple dichotomy of negative versus positive.