The Conversation

The conversation is a collaboration between case managers, persons served, advocates, and providers to explore how using technology can increase independence and safety of the individual supported.

The role of a case manager during these initial conversations is to ensure the person’s needs are being appropriately considered, their questions and concerns are able to be voiced, and that state requirements are met. This may include initiating the conversation, helping individuals and family members raise questions, discussing potential service options that are available and appropriate for the individual, and connecting individuals and families with providers of the desired services. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure the individual and their family members/advocates understand the technology and realize the full impact it can have on increasing independence and quality of life.

The conversation should conclude with everyone being on the same page.

Keys to a successful conversation

Bring your knowledge of the person served

• What do you already know about the person and how this will appeal to them?
• What does the person want? Is this different than what the team wants?
• What is their “techy” knowledge and ability?
• What areas of the person’s life do they strive to be more independent in?
• What community preferences do they have–what is important to them?

Start with the person not the technology

• Do they want to move to or remain in their own home?
• How can technology help meet needs previously handled solely by direct care staff, and what does the transition look like?
• What are caregivers currently doing that may be supplemented by technology?

Actively seek answers

• What will the technology do versus what will it not do?
• What are the chances of a system going down?
• How quick are the response times?
• What happens in emergency situations?
• What concerns and fears does the person(s) and/or caregiver(s) have regarding the use of technology as a support option?
• What technology options are available from different providers?

Conversation Starters

Many service providers and technology service vendors employ “assessment” tools to begin and guide conversations. Using questions such as those above and others refined to align with their specific conversation needs, they are able to more finely tune outcomes and recommend options. Though not required by regulators, these tools may act as useful guides when beginning the conversation phase. View examples of assessments.

Next Steps

If you have additional question about the conversation, ask one of our Mentors. Once initial conversations have been had with all stakeholders, the next step can begin by creating a plan tailored to the individual.

Begin planning