Care Needs Assessment

If you think you or a loved one might need care, a care needs assessment can help determine care needs along with the resources available to your loved one.

What is a care needs assessment?

A care needs assessment is a thorough in home assessment of an elderly of disabled individual to determine what the care needs are in their situation. This assessment looks at both the state of the living quarters and the daily activities of your loved one.

Your loved one will also be asked several questions about their living situation and quality of life. By both observing and questioning the individual, the care needs assessment will come to a complete conclusion about care needs.

Who does a care needs assessment?

A care needs assessment can be organized through your local or state Area Agency on Aging. A geriatric care manager, who is generally a nurse, social worker, counselor, or gerontologist, will visit your loved one’s home to evaluate needs. These care managers are certified in their fields and are trained in order to know the signs of care needs.

Care managers not only help assess the care needs of the individual, but can also develop a care plan, coordinate care, monitor care services, and assist in dealing with complicated government benefits and resources. They are also aware of any public or private supports offered in your area and are able to assist in applying for or arranging use of these services.

What is determined from an assessment?

From a care needs assessment, the needed supports and services of an elderly or disabled individual will be determined. This information can be used to determine any government programs or assistance your loved one may be eligible for.

This information can also be used to inform any current or future caregivers of necessary care. After an assessment, the care manager can also connect your loved one to any public or private services available and help them decide which best suit their needs and lifestyle.

What happens after an assessment?

After a care needs assessment, your loved one can begin receiving the services for which they have been approved. They can also begin to work on applications for any necessary government programs with the help of family members and the Area Agency on Aging. By taking advantage of the public services available in their area, your loved one’s quality of life can be greatly increased.

Area Agencies on aging can also assist in creating a care plan after a care needs assessment is completed. A care plan will outline the specific supports and services required by your loved one and how often they are required. This will ensure the proper care is given at the proper times to maintain quality of life.

Who should have a care needs assessment?

Care needs assessments should be done if you believe you or a loved one might need care. These assessments can help determine what care you need, how often you need it, any government programs you may qualify for, and put you in touch with resources already available in your area.