Care managers (also called case managers or geriatric care managers) evaluate and oversee the health and support needs of older adults and adults with disabilities. Working closely with the individual, family members, and direct care providers such as doctors and home care workers, care managers can help meet current and future needs.

What is a Care Manager?
Care managers often have a nursing degree or a background in gerontology, social work, or counseling. They have extensive knowledge of the quality, availability, and costs of services in the community.

What services do Care Managers provide?
Care managers help plan which health care or social services could assist an older adult or person with a disability. Care managers may also meet with the individual's doctor, health care providers, and family to coordinate the delivery of services and provide a continuum of care. They can act as the liaison between an individual and his attorney, financial planner, trust officer, and family, and can also complete and submit the paperwork required by insurance companies, Medicare, and Medi-Cal. Care managers may act as a liaison for long-distance caregivers since they can meet and monitor local service providers. If family members do live close by, the care manager can provide information to help them meet their loved one's health care needs.

What should I look for in a Care Manager?
Individuals, private agencies, and non-profit organizations all provide care management services. Before you hire a care manager, print out copies of Care Manager Checklist, which provides detailed questions to help you to evaluate and compare their services. You can also view the website of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers for the names of their members who live near you.

How do I pay for a Care Manager?
Most care managers charge per hour for their services. There is usually an initial assessment fee. Ongoing costs will be determined by the needs of the individual and the resources available for payment. Care management services are not covered by Medicare, Medi-Cal, or most private insurance.