Social Services / Case Management
Q: What is Case Management and how can it help me?
A: Case management is a process for helping people who are in danger of losing their independence due to the presence of multiple problems which require assistance from one or more persons. It has a dual emphasis:
1. to develop and enhance available resources and
2. to strengthen the personal competence of the client to obtain resources.
Q: What is the first step to request a case manager?
A: Call 1-800-211-2116. An information and assistance specialist will determine your need and refer you to a case manager, if appropriate. Information and assistance and/or case management services are free to seniors 60 years of age or older. Services are paid for by the Older Americans Act.
Q: What will the case manager do when she/he visits me?
A: If you are referred to a case manager, she/he will call to set up a time to visit you at home. The case manager will complete an assessment to determine your level of need and current resources. Feel free to ask the case manager any questions during the assessment.
Q: What type of information will I have to tell the case manager?
A: The assessment is comprehensive and contains questions about your health, family and friend support, and any services you currently receive. To determine eligibility for some services the case manager will ask your income. You will never be pressured to answer any question, however, you may limit the types of services available to you by not providing complete information.
Q: Will the information that I tell the case manager be kept confidential?
A: Yes. Your assessment will be kept in a locked file and will only be seen by the case manager and case management supervisor. Information will only be shared with potential service providers if you give written permission to do so.
Q: Will my family need to participate in the assessment or care plan?
A: Yes. If you have family they should be present during the initial assessment. They will be encouraged to participate in the design and provision of your care plan. Any support your family is able to provide is very important to the success of your care plan.
Q: Will I get a chance to have input into the type of care that I need or will I loose control?
A: You will be in charge of all decisions. The case manager will explain options and/or services that are available to you and answer your questions. The case manager has no authority to choose for you. The care plan is developed in agreement by all parties involved, especially the client.
Q: What types of help can I expect to receive from the case manager?
A: The case manager will assess your situation and identify needs. She/he will then link you to available services in the community for which you qualify. The case manager is not someone to run your errands or take you places. The case manager will be your service coordinator and advocate.
Q: How often will the case manager visit me after the initial assessment?
A: The case manager will contact you in person or by telephone periodically to make sure that the care plan that was designed for you is still meeting your needs. You will be given a telephone number to contact the case manager to report changes in your health or living arrangements.