Case managing the elderly: best bet for the future

The increasing numbers of elderly persons and the growing complexity of their needs have prompted development of case management for the frail elderly as a distinct professional entity. Case management (not to be confused with the payers' use of the term, referring to a method to contain cost of care) services can assist the frail elderly, providing them with the best possible quality of life by helping them avoid the "revolving door" syndrome of repeated and often unnecessary hospitalization and premature or inappropriate placement in long-term care facilities. Community-based case management programs: Assess the need for service in the community. Identify the target population. Provide local access to service. Provide outreach information, referral, and service. Collaborate with other agencies and service organizations. The Department of Aging of Catholic Charities, Los Angeles, operates several OASIS (Older Adult Services and Intervention System) programs, which include case management services. From January 1987 through June 1988, with a budget of less than $500,000, OASIS programs: Provided free comprehensive case management services to approximately 1,500 frail elderly persons. Recruited and trained 235 volunteers and provided a variety of supportive and caring services for the frail elderly. Responded to more than 5,000 requests for information or referrals, assisting the frail elderly, their families, or their friends in identifying and securing needed services. Saved California's Medicaid program more than $5 million.