{"id":8267,"date":"2026-05-04T00:53:38","date_gmt":"2026-05-04T04:53:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/carepatrol.ca\/calgary\/?p=8267"},"modified":"2026-05-04T14:34:43","modified_gmt":"2026-05-04T18:34:43","slug":"8267-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/carepatrol.ca\/calgary\/8267-2\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Get a Senior a Continuing Care Case Manager in Calgary (AHS): Step by Step"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\n CALGARY \u2022 AHS \u2022 CONTINUING CARE \u2022 CASE MANAGER \u2022 HOME CARE \u2022 SUPPORTIVE LIVING\n <\/p>\n

\n A practical Calgary guide to starting the AHS continuing care process, understanding what a Case Manager does, and preparing for the first call and assessment.\n <\/p>\n

\n Medical note:<\/strong> Educational only, not medical advice. For urgent safety concerns, call 911. For guidance in Alberta, call Health Link 811.\n <\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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\n \"Senior\n <\/div>\n

If you want publicly funded support in Alberta, home care, a continuing care assessment, supportive living (Type B), or long-term care (Type A), the first gate is usually the same: you need to be connected to a continuing care Case Manager through AHS.<\/p>\n

Families get stuck here because nobody tells you the process plainly. You hear \u201ccall home care,\u201d \u201cask for continuing care,\u201d \u201cget on a list,\u201d \u201ctalk to a case manager,\u201d and it all sounds like different systems. It\u2019s one pathway with a few entry points, and in Calgary there is a straightforward place to start.<\/p>\n

This guide explains what a Case Manager does, who can request an assessment, how to start the process in Calgary, and what to have ready so the conversation reflects what\u2019s actually happening at home.<\/p>\n

\n Quick Takeaway<\/span><\/p>\n
    \n
  • In Calgary, the practical entry point is usually AHS Community Care Access.<\/li>\n
  • You do not usually need a doctor\u2019s referral just to start the process.<\/li>\n
  • The call goes better when you describe day-to-day reality with a few clear examples of risk, change, and caregiver strain.<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n
    \n Who This Is For<\/span><\/p>\n

    This is for Calgary families trying to figure out the first step toward home care, supportive living, long-term care, or a continuing care assessment through AHS.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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    WHAT A CONTINUING CARE CASE MANAGER DOES<\/h2>\n
    <\/div>\n

    AHS describes continuing care access as beginning with an assessment. The Case Manager is the person who completes that assessment and helps determine what supports fit best.<\/p>\n

    That might include services that help someone remain as independent as possible at home. It can also include planning for a higher level of support when needs increase.<\/p>\n

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    Important practical point:<\/strong><\/p>\n

    If your loved one lives at home, AHS says the assessment is done in the home, and that assessing at home is the best option to determine care needs.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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    WHO CAN REQUEST AN ASSESSMENT<\/h2>\n
    <\/div>\n

    In Alberta, you can start the process yourself. AHS says you can self-refer, or be referred, if you live in Alberta and have an Alberta Health Care number or valid Alberta health insurance coverage.<\/p>\n

    If you\u2019re calling for a parent, spouse, or loved one, you can still initiate the process. As long as the client agrees, anyone can make the referral.<\/p>\n

    If your loved one cannot easily manage phone calls, details, or consent conversations, call anyway and ask intake what they need in order to speak with you as the family contact.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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    WHERE TO START IN CALGARY<\/h2>\n
    <\/div>\n

    For Calgary families, AHS lists Community Care Access (Central Intake) as the entry point for referral to Calgary Zone Home Care and continuing care homes.<\/p>\n

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    CALGARY COMMUNITY CARE ACCESS (AHS)<\/strong><\/p>\n

    Phone: 403-943-1920
    Toll-free: 1-888-943-1920
    Hours: Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 8:00 am to 4:15 pm
    Open on statutory holidays 8:00 am to 4:15 pm<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

    AHS also notes an estimated wait time will be provided at the time of appointment booking.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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    IF YOUR LOVED ONE IS IN HOSPITAL RIGHT NOW<\/h2>\n
    <\/div>\n

    AHS states that if an assessment is needed while someone is in hospital, an onsite Transition Coordinator may act as the Case Manager until discharge from acute care.<\/p>\n

    AHS also states that if the person is in hospital and not yet able to go home for an in-home assessment, the assessment can be completed by a member of the healthcare team.<\/p>\n

    Practical takeaway: if discharge is being discussed, start asking about the continuing care pathway early. It reduces the scramble that happens when everyone is tired and time is short.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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    WHAT TO HAVE READY<\/h2>\n
    <\/div>\n
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    Helpful examples to have ready:<\/strong><\/p>\n

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    • falls or near-falls, or a new need for hands-on transfers<\/li>\n
    • medication mix-ups, missed doses, double doses, or confusion about changes<\/li>\n
    • memory-related safety issues such as wandering risk, stove safety, or unsafe decisions<\/li>\n
    • night-time supervision, especially if the caregiver is not sleeping<\/li>\n
    • bathing, dressing, toileting, and meal issues that have changed recently<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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      WHAT HAPPENS AFTER YOU REACH OUT<\/h2>\n
      <\/div>\n

      After intake, AHS will determine next steps and arrange an assessment. If the person lives at home, the assessment is generally done in the home.<\/p>\n

      From there, the Case Manager helps determine what level of support fits the person\u2019s needs and situation.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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      IF DEMENTIA IS PART OF THE SITUATION<\/h2>\n
      <\/div>\n

      If behaviour is changing, especially late afternoon or overnight, do not wait for the perfect appointment to ask for help.<\/p>\n

      For guidance, call Health Link 811. AHS offers Dementia Advice through 811 where you can speak with a dementia specialist for advice, support, and connection to resources.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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      COMMON SNAGS<\/h2>\n
      <\/div>\n
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      • Your loved one sounds stronger in appointments than they are at home.<\/li>\n
      • Family members are describing the situation differently.<\/li>\n
      • The concern is real, but nobody has written down examples clearly.<\/li>\n
      • There is a hospital stay, and everyone assumes someone else is handling the continuing care piece.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        If your loved one \u201cperforms well\u201d in appointments, bring a short snapshot of what\u2019s happening at home, with a few clear examples, times of day, and safety concerns.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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        HOW WE HELP<\/h2>\n
        <\/div>\n

        We help Calgary families compare senior living options, understand next-step decisions, and get more organized before those high-pressure calls and assessments.<\/p>\n

        We do not replace AHS, a physician, or a hospital team. We help families think clearly about the living option side so they can move forward with more confidence.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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        FAQ<\/h2>\n
        <\/div>\n
        \nCAN I CALL FOR MY PARENT OR SPOUSE?<\/summary>\n
        Yes. AHS states that anyone can initiate the process, as long as the client agrees. If your loved one struggles with phone calls or details, call anyway and ask intake what they need to document consent and family contact in your situation.<\/div>\n<\/details>\n
        \nDO I NEED A DOCTOR\u2019S REFERRAL FIRST?<\/summary>\n
        Not usually. AHS states no referral is necessary to start the process and get a Case Manager assigned to begin an assessment.<\/div>\n<\/details>\n
        \nHOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET AN APPOINTMENT?<\/summary>\n
        It varies. AHS notes an estimated wait time will be provided at the time of appointment booking. Timing depends on assessed need and system capacity.<\/div>\n<\/details>\n
        \nWHAT IF MY LOVED ONE \u201cPERFORMS WELL\u201d IN APPOINTMENTS?<\/summary>\n
        That\u2019s common. The best move is to bring a short snapshot of what\u2019s happening at home, with a few clear examples, times of day, and safety concerns. This helps the assessment reflect daily reality.<\/div>\n<\/details>\n
        \nWHAT IF THIS STARTED AFTER A HOSPITAL STAY?<\/summary>\n
        AHS notes that if an assessment is needed while someone is in hospital, a Transition Coordinator may act as the Case Manager until discharge, and assessment can be completed by a member of the healthcare team if the person is not able to go home for an in-home assessment.<\/div>\n<\/details>\n
        \nIF DEMENTIA BEHAVIOUR IS GETTING WORSE AT NIGHT, WHAT CAN I DO RIGHT NOW?<\/summary>\n
        For guidance, call Health Link 811. AHS offers Dementia Advice through 811 where you can speak with a dementia specialist for advice, support, and connection to resources.<\/div>\n<\/details><\/div>\n
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        HOW THIS ARTICLE WAS PUT TOGETHER<\/h2>\n
        <\/div>\n
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        We wrote this using Alberta Health Services guidance on getting a Case Manager, accessing continuing care, Calgary Zone Community Care Access, and AHS continuing care FAQ information. We also referenced AHS Dementia Advice information through Health Link 811 for families dealing with dementia-related changes.<\/p>\n

        We stayed in a practical lane. We do not diagnose, prescribe, or provide medical advice. For medical questions, families should consult their care team.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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        SOURCES<\/h2>\n
        <\/div>\n
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        • Alberta Health Services, Getting a Case Manager<\/li>\n
        • Alberta Health Services, Accessing Continuing Care<\/li>\n
        • Alberta Health Services, Calgary Zone Community Care Access<\/li>\n
        • Alberta Health Services, Continuing Care FAQ<\/li>\n
        • Alberta Health Services, Dementia Advice through Health Link 811<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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          ABOUT THE AUTHOR<\/h2>\n
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          Written by:<\/strong> Shar Gray-Asemota, CPCA\u00ae (CarePatrol of Calgary)<\/p>\n

          Shar supports Calgary families as they compare senior living options, navigate next-step planning, and make realistic decisions under time pressure. This article is educational only and does not replace medical advice, clinical discharge planning, or AHS case management.<\/p>\n

          Reviewed by:<\/strong> Shar Gray-Asemota, CPCA\u00ae (CarePatrol of Calgary)<\/p>\n

          Medical note:<\/strong> Educational only, not medical advice. For urgent concerns, call 911. For guidance in Alberta, call Health Link 811.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n

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\n ABOUT THE AUTHOR
\n <\/h2>\n

\"Shar<\/p>\n

\n Shar Gray-Asemota\n <\/p>\n

\n Certified Professional Consultant on Aging (CPCA)\u00ae and Values Based Care Specialist\n <\/p>\n

\n Shar supports Calgary families comparing assisted living, memory care, supportive living, and continuing care options.\n <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

\n

\n CREDENTIALS
\n <\/h2>\n
\n \"Certified<\/p>\n

\n Certified Professional Consultant on Aging (CPCA\u00ae)\n <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

\n \"Aligned<\/p>\n

\n Values Based Care Specialist\n <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

\n
\n \"CarePatrol\n <\/div>\n

\n TALK WITH A LOCAL CARE ADVISOR
\n <\/h3>\n
<\/div>\n

\n Get clear, practical help comparing assisted living, memory care, supportive living, and continuing care options.\n <\/p>\n


\n Get Help Now
\n <\/a>\n <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

CALGARY \u2022 AHS \u2022 CONTINUING CARE \u2022 CASE MANAGER \u2022 HOME CARE \u2022 SUPPORTIVE LIVING A practical Calgary guide to starting the AHS continuing care process, understanding what a Case Manager does, and preparing for the first call and assessment. Medical note: Educational only, not medical advice. For urgent safety concerns, call 911. For guidance…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":241,"featured_media":8283,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"tpl-full-width.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8267","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/carepatrol.ca\/calgary\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8267","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/carepatrol.ca\/calgary\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/carepatrol.ca\/calgary\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/carepatrol.ca\/calgary\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/241"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/carepatrol.ca\/calgary\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8267"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/carepatrol.ca\/calgary\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8267\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8287,"href":"https:\/\/carepatrol.ca\/calgary\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8267\/revisions\/8287"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/carepatrol.ca\/calgary\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8283"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/carepatrol.ca\/calgary\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8267"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/carepatrol.ca\/calgary\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8267"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/carepatrol.ca\/calgary\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8267"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}