For many older adults, the holiday season can be a time of great sadness. “Many of our senior clients experience feelings of isolation and loss as they recall past holidays spent with family and friends who have moved or are deceased,” says Senior Case Manager Andrea Margulies. “It can be very painful and overwhelming.”

“We find ourselves checking in more frequently with clients during November and December,” says co-worker Lisa South, “especially those who may not have a strong social network. They are very appreciative to receive our calls, to know that someone cares and that we are here to support them.”

CSA’s Senior Case Management program provides wrap-around services to help seniors live in their own homes for as long as possible by coordinating the services they need to stay healthy and active. The agency also offers an Intensive Case Management program funded by El Camino Hospital District that seeks to prevent the re-hospitalization of seniors with chronic health conditions.

“Seniors – especially those who live at the poverty line – are among the most vulnerable members of our community,” says Senior Services Director Alex Imbesi. “A rent hike, a utilities increase during the cold winter months and/or an unexpected medical expense or additional prescription medication can literally tip their living situation over the edge.”

CSA’s case managers and the services we provide – including emergency financial assistance in the instances above – can make all the difference in an older person’s life. “Above all, we are in the business of caring and helping people traverse the issues of aging,” says Margulies. “By working closely with clients, we help them feel that they are not in this alone.”