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-- Programs and Services -- Contact Information Elder Services announces two promotions
By Lisa Lungo
Elder Services has promoted Cynthia Costello to Client Services Manager, and AnneMarie Cripps to Health Services Manager. Costello has a B.S.W. from Ball State University and is a Licensed Social Worker. She joined the Elder Services team in 2001 as a case manager and in 2003 became Elder Services Client Services Supervisor. Cripps received her associates’ degree in Human Services in 1992, and an associates degree in Nursing in 2002, both from Berkshire Community College. Cripps has been an Elder Services Client Services Registered Nurse since May 2005.
In her new role as Client Services Manager, Costello will oversee administrative operations of the various home care programs. Home care programs offer in-home services such as assistance with personal hygiene, preparation of meals, homemaking, laundry and day programs to eligible individuals over age 60.
In addition to home care programs, Costello will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Information and Referral Department. This department receives over 6,000 calls annually with requests for information ranging from senior housing sites in Berkshire County, to communities that offer tax abatement programs for senior residents and tips on how to find an assisted-living facility or nursing facility. Anyone with a question related to senior issues is encouraged to call Information and Referral. The service is free.
Cripps, in her new role as Health Service Manager, will oversee the team of Elder Services nurses who conduct health assessments for elders receiving personal care services, provide ongoing consultation with case management staff and approve individuals for certain MassHealth services. For the past 18 months, the nursing team has been working very closely with Berkshire County nursing facilities to identify residents appropriate to return to the community with in-home services.
For information about Elder Services programs, including eligibility criteria, call Elder Services at 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242.
Lisa Lungo is the Director of Client Services at Elder Services. She oversees the homecare, housing, health services, protective and