A recent case that needed the help of a Care Manager is as follows:
An 85-year-old female had a lifelong history of mental illness. She would not seek and follow up with mental health providers. Her children were very distressed because her hoarding behavior and self-neglect were taking their toll. The family had cleared out the house only to have it hoarded again. The police, fire department and Adult Protective Services had been to the home multiple times, but the senior responded to their questions with accurate responses, and she refused to leave home. The children and police were concerned that when removed from the home, she would be cleared in the emergency department and allowed to return home. It took weeks of support and encouragement before the family would let an involuntary petition for removal of the senior from her home. She was hospitalized, medicated and is now in a group home where she has her nutrition, hygiene, medication and quality of life returned to her.
There are many seniors and adults in this situation. Families may know what the circumstances are but do not know how to facilitate action or they may have been alienated due to the individual’s long-standing behavior. There are ways to get help for these unfortunate people that cannot provide a safe environment for themselves. It takes a coordinated effort with leadership by advocate/care manager that understands the needs of those with mental illness and dementia, the police and mental health providers, but it can be done. It is not easy, but the dignity and autonomy of the person can be maintained.