Care Management

As Dignity Care grew Mary quickly saw the need for qualified people to provide the complete care that Mary had been overseeing. There were simply too many clients for Mary to manage herself so she created the position of Care Manager. Dignity Care is proud to offer Care Management as part of our complete care approach. Care Management is included in the per hour rate agreed upon in our Client Contract Agreement. This means that each client of Dignity Care is provided with a Care Manager. Dignity Care takes a team approach to caring for elders in their home and the Care Manager is the leader of the team. They are the primary contact for the client, their family, and the care givers.

Care Coordination

Care coordination begins with a Care Manager contacting the client, family, and/or the Power of Attorney within two hours of an intake/care agreement. The Care Manager take the time to introduce themselves and their role as Care Manager. A team of caregivers is assembled and trained/acclimated to the specific needs of the client.
Depending upon the services needed, coordination with Discharge Planners from hospitals, Nurses, Hospice, and Therapists (Physical/Occupational) begins. Making sure the client, family, and caregivers are on the same schedule, providing the care needed is paramount for easing the transition from independent living to living with some assistance.

In Home Communication

Of course, communication amonst caregivers, the client(s), families, and Care Managers is vital. The Care Manager will inspect the home or residence for safety issues and establish a communication log in the home. The Care Manager will also provide referrals and answer pertinent questions for the client and family. There are weekly Care Manager meetings and monthly Care Manager/caregiver meetings to discuss and problem solve if necessary. Of course, the Care Manager is always available to answer any questions or concerns of the client/family.

It is Dignity Care policy that a Care Manager work at least two shifts per month in the home of their client(s). This allows them to monitor medications (if any), see the environment and understand the needs of the client and caregiver.

A few other services offered by our Care Managers:

• Evaluation of needs and suggested schedule if necessary
• Support for the client and family in their decisions
• Monitoring medication
• Scheduling and arranging transportation for medical/therapeutic appointments
• Caregiver performance evaluations
• Evaluate client/caregiver compatability and make adjustments if necessary