Understanding Care Management

What are Care Management Services?

A professional Care Manager is a health and human services specialist who helps individuals who are caring for older adults. Care Managers are typically trained and experienced in any of several fields including nursing, gerontology, social work, psychology or counseling and have a specialized body of knowledge and experience related to aging and care issues.

Why Choose Care Management

Managing all aspects of care for an aging or disabled loved one can be overwhelming and confusing. Working with a Care Manager can simplify the process and ensure that your loved one is receiving the best care possible. Below are some of the reasons families choose care management;

• An aging or disabled individual needs advocacy related to care 
• A family is attempting to coordinate care from a distance or is otherwise unavailable to provide adequate support
• A family or caregiver is experiencing “burn out” 
• A family is in disagreement regarding care decisions for an individual
• Help is needed regarding finances
• A family is in crisis due to a loved one’s rapidly declining health

What do Care Managers do?

Care Managers can assist in a multitude of ways, including, but not limited to;

• Assessment and development of an individualized care-plan- identifying issues, need for services and eligibility for assistance.
• Arranging for and monitoring of in-home care, senior living or other services that pertain to an individual's physical and mental health;
• Referral to appropriate professionals for financial, legal, or medical services
• Crisis intervention
• Acting as a liaison to families and providers 
• Education and Advocacy
• Caregiver support
• Life Planning services
• Health care Power of Attorney services or consultation
• Guardianship services
• Mediation

How is Care Management paid for?

Care Management services are typically private pay with hourly rates ranging anywhere from $50-$200/hour. Medicare and most insurance plans will not cover the cost of care management services. Some Long-Term Care Insurance policies may cover a portion of the services, such as the Initial Assessment but you will need to refer to your specific policy coverage for specifics and confirmation.

Every situation involving an aging or disabled person is different and can hold varying levels of complexity. By offering their expert services, a Care Manager can save a family time and stress while ensuring the highest quality care for your loved one in both short and long-term situations.