Homepage
-- Programs and Services -- Contact Information Case Managers help seniors remain at home
By Lisa Lungo
While technically case management is defined as the process of planning, seeking, and monitoring services provided by different social agencies and staff on behalf of a client, Elder Services Case Manager Gary Lecuyer defines case management as an opportunity to meet new people, listen to seniors' stories, and to help support their goal to remain at home and independent for as long as possible.
A licensed social worker, Lecuyer first worked at Elder Services from 1979 to 1990. In 1990, he left to pursue different social work opportunities including work in area hospitals and other institutional settings. He enjoyed his varied work experiences, and it was during this time that he witnessed first hand what he knew all along — seniors want to remain independent at home for as long as possible.
In 1999, Lecuyer returned to Elder Services because, “I believe in the mission of home care.” Today, he assesses seniors in their home, works with them to identify areas of need, authorizes services such as homemaking, Meals on Wheels, and personal care assistance, as well as regularly monitoring these services to ensure needs are being met. Recently, Elder Services case management staff started employing modern technology to aide their work. Case managers like Lecuyer make in-home assessments using a laptop computer, which means now case managers benefit from more information available at their fingertips.
When asked what he likes most about being a case manager at Elder Services, he explained, “My job is worthwhile and personally fulfilling, and I work with a good group of people.”
Elder Services of Berkshire County is a progressive and dedicated human service organization that assists seniors to live with dignity and independence and to achieve the highest possible quality of life. The agency offers an excellent benefit package which includes health insurance, a dental plan, a pension plan, three weeks paid vacation to start, and paid sick and personal time. For more information, contact Elder Services' Human Resources Specialist at 499-0524.
Lisa Lungo is Elder Services Director
of Client Services.