“Social Work: Uplift. Defend. Transform.” is the 2026 theme created by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) to describe and honor the primary mission of the social work profession. Social work is dedicated to enhancing the well-being and meeting of basic human needs of all people, putting special attention on needs and empowerment of people who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty, according to NASW.
Older adults’ special needs grow and change with aging. Residences Senior Living has been unique in realizing their special needs require special services. Since the doors opened more than a decade ago, it’s been our mission to assure residents and their families have access to professional social services focused on their unique needs. The importance of this commitment is achieved through the position of Director of Social Services as a full-time role. Lindsey Sherron is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as a graduate of Indiana University’s Master’s in Social Work advanced degree program, serving as Director for both Residences at Deer Creek and Residences at Coffee Creek as well.
That’s special! Lindsey is known in her field locally and statewide. She was awarded 2024 Caregiver of the Year by the Indiana Assisted Living Association. She continues to work with Indiana University Northwest as a mentor for students earning degrees in social services through their Intern Programs rotating at Deer Creek and Coffee Creek. Residences Senior Living is honored to participate and partner with higher learning colleges and universities to provide one-on-one experiences for these eager students.
Lindsey brings over 20 years of social services experience working with the senior population in a variety of settings. These including home health, hospice, assisted living, memory care and outpatient therapeutic services. Her geriatric experience and expertise support our residents and families as they are navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. They have the benefit of a professional who can explain options in simple terms, how to plan and how to make decisions for the best course of action based on individual needs.
Lindsey understands the stress older adults and families face when making these life-altering decisions and offers coping strategies and reassurance through her counsel. She is also a resource advocate, familiar with services for older adults. She is a superb listener and helps them identify and cope with social, emotional, psychological, spiritual and environmental factors as these affect overall well-being.
Before there is a move-in, Lindsey is there. Lindsey often counsels those who are struggling with making the decision for assisted living for fear of losing independence, among many other concerns. She is there for new residents during and after the move, making transitions easier and offering support. We also recognize families have their own unique needs during the move of a loved one to assisted living; Lindsey is always ready to sit down and listen to them as well.
Understanding that transitioning to Memory Care, whether from home or from assisted living should the need arise, is challenging not only for a resident but for families who are also adjusting to this new need for a loved one’s care and safety. Lindsey’s compassionate and sincere approach is a relief to all, including our nurses who also depend on her kindness, patience, and expertise for easier transitions.
Social work is truly a valued profession and the needs are increasing for all ages, especially for the geriatric. It is one of the fastest growing professions nation-wide according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. The more the need grows for those specializing in geriatric social work, the more we are appreciative of Lindsey, along with our residents, families and staff, for her daily contributions to our unique approach for senior living.
