Finding stability

Benny had been experiencing homelessness for several years when he joined our WellSense Senior Care Options plan. During his first health assessment with his Nurse Care Manager, Benny shared that he slept wherever he could find a place to lie down, often being chased away. He had not seen his primary care doctor in several years, despite having diabetes and serious breathing issues due to asthma. His living situation made these conditions worse. He needed safe, stable housing.

WellSense Social Work Care Manager Heather took on Benny’s case, and she immediately referred him to Boston Medical Center (BMC)’s Living Well at Home program. The program allows BMC patients to take advantage of housing services provided by a team of experienced housing case managers and social workers.

Benny’s care team identified several obstacles to finding him housing, including his inability to receive mail and lack of required documents, which prolonged his homelessness. Then, he received some good news—a free room became available at a local shelter—and although it wasn’t a permanent solution, he now had a roof over his head while he continued working with the Living Well at Home team to continue getting on the right track.

In early 2023, Benny found permanent housing through the Boston Housing Authority, thanks to assistance from the Living Well at Home team. They helped him with every step, from appointments to document submission. Heather, his WellSense Care Manager, ensured his progress and enrolled him in the MassHealth Mitigating Costs of Housing (MATCH) Program to help Benny buy home essentials. Together with Linda, a nurse case manager, they also supported Benny in addressing his health issues, arranging for Benny to receive home delivered meals, laundry service and even homemaker assistance. Now in his new apartment, Benny is healthier and often expresses his deep appreciation for the support he's received.

See if you qualify for our WellSense Senior Options plan by visiting wellsense.org/SCO.

Names and locations have been changed to protect the privacy of the individuals involved.