A growing number of professionals are offering private ease or care management services designed to help caregivers locate and coordinate social services. Each care management organization operates differently, but typically the organization will evaluate the older person's situation, make recommendations, arrange appropriate services and keep family members informed. Usually the caregiver needs to locate a care manager in the city or town where the relative resides. Some care managers, however, have a network of associates in various cities across the country.

Private care management organizations are frequently listed in the Yellow Pages under Social Services, Social Workers, Aging Services, Senior Citizen Services and Home Health Organizations.

Since the field is relatively new, you should keep in mind that private care management organizations are not regulated. Fees vary with initial consultations costing $50 to $100. You are advised to investigate the services provided and the fee structure in advance.