Don't wait for the scheduled review

If a person's situation changes suddenly — a fall, a hospitalization, a rapid decline in cognitive or physical function — you should contact your CLSC care coordinator immediately. You do not need to wait for the next scheduled review.

CLSCs do not typically monitor day-to-day changes. The family or the person themselves must initiate contact.

Common situations that trigger urgent reassessment

After a fall or injury A fall resulting in a fracture, loss of confidence, or changed mobility often warrants an immediate change in care services. Call your care coordinator the same day or the next business day.

After hospitalization Hospital discharge is a transition point where care needs frequently increase. The hospital social worker or discharge planner should connect you to CLSC before discharge — but if they don't, call your CLSC yourself. See After hospital discharge.

Sudden cognitive change If a person begins showing signs of confusion, disorientation, or unsafe behavior that is new or worsening, document what you observe and contact the CLSC and the person's physician at the same time.

Loss of caregiver availability If a family member who was providing substantial informal support is no longer able to do so — due to illness, travel, work, or family circumstances — that changes the equation and justifies requesting additional CLSC services.

What to say when you call

Be direct: "My mother's situation has changed significantly since the last assessment. I'm requesting an urgent reassessment."

Describe specifically what has changed — not just "she's worse," but what she can no longer do that she could before. Write it down beforehand so you are clear on the call.

If the CLSC response is slow

If needs are urgent and you are not getting a timely response, ask the person's physician to contact the CLSC directly. A physician referral often accelerates the process.

You can also contact Info-Santé (8-1-1) for immediate health guidance, or L'Appui's Caregiver Support Helpline for caregiver support and advice on navigating the system.