Self-Determination in Later Life: Case Studies in Geriatric Care

Abstract

The trans-disciplinary approach is a crucial factor in determining appropriate care for older adults. Connecticut Community Care, Inc. is a statewide private, non-profit agency; the only licensed case management agency in Connecticut, with eight years of experience in using an interdisciplinary team. The function is to provide assessments of older adults, coordination of all services, benefits and entitlements, and monitoring of services correlated to the clients’ response. Connecticut Community Care contracts with existing agencies to provide a variety of services such as adult day care, home health care, counseling, companion, and meals. The agency facilitates access and entry into a complex health and social service system, and assists frail elderly clients in obtaining maximum benefits from the system. The targeted population is defined as “high risk, frail elderly” because of multiple problems which warrant the response of an interdisciplinary team. Referrals are taken from any source and assessments of social, financial and health care needs are conducted with the client regardless of the client’s location in the health care continuum.

Yes I am old — my strength declines And wrinkles tell the touch of time. Yet I might fancy these the signs Not of decay, but Manhood’s prime For all within is young and glowing Spite of old age’s outward showing. Yes, I am old, experience now That best of guides hath made me sage, And thus instructed I avow My firm conviction that old Age Of all our various terms of living Demands our warmest, best Thanksgiving. Isaac Bell, 1857.