Paula James, Bureau Chief (850) 414-2164 jamesp@elderaffairs.org

Comprehensive Assessment and Review for Long-Term Care Services (CARES)

CARES is Florida’s federally mandated nursing home pre-admission assessment program. CARES staff members, including registered nurses and assessors, perform medical needs assessments of individuals. These assessments are part of the process to assist elders in receiving appropriate services through local funding sources and/or Florida Medicaid.

The CARES staff members identify a client’s long-term care needs, determine the level of care required to meet those needs and, if appropriate, suggest less restrictive alternatives that may allow the client to continue living at home or in a community setting rather than in a nursing home.

Read more about the services provided by CARES.