As healthcare became more specialized, it also became more fragmented.

Particularly in geriatrics, managing general health considerations and coping with changes in memory, mood and movement are overwhelming for some elders and families.

Clinical social workers, skilled nurses and a developing field known as care management are meeting the fragmentation challenge.

Direct services (Medicare-covered) for memory and mood assessments and individual and family therapies, along with care management (billed privately) give people an opportunity to maximize their control of the health care system, instead of becoming lost in it.

Seacoast Geriatrics and friends have a different perspective in elder care.