Behind every family caregiver on our service is a team working tirelessly to ensure they’re seen, supported, and never alone on the journey. At Careforth, our care managers play a vital role in making that promise real—guiding families through complex care needs, connecting them with resources, and offering compassionate support when it’s needed most.

This month, we’re proud to feature one of our dedicated care managers in honor of Case Management Week. Christine Dilgard has spent the last six years at Careforth helping families navigate caregiving with confidence and care. From home visits to thoughtful collaboration with care teams and community partners, her work demonstrates what it means to walk alongside caregivers every step of the way.

What is your role and how long have you worked at Careforth?

I am a care manager and have been at Careforth for 6 years. My role is to help caregivers by providing them with support, direction, and guidance. I work with a team including a registered nurse (RN) and my manager, complete monthly home visits, and collaborate on solutions to issues that may arise from caregiving. I navigate community resources and make referrals that benefit the families we serve.

What inspired you to join our team?

I find it rewarding to help others in their caregiving journey and wanted to be a part of a company with an important mission. With caregiving, there are many dynamics at play; it has an important and valuable impact to the community.

How do you support families and caregivers in your role, and why is it important?

I provide caregivers and their families with support, guidance, and resources, and make referrals on their behalf. This is important as this support can alleviate the caregiver’s stress and give them more confidence while providing care. I also work with outside agencies and work with my team RN to enhance the quality of life for the caregiver and the person they’re caring for.  

Do you have a personal connection to caregiving that you’re comfortable sharing? If so, what is it?

I have personally seen relatives caring for their elderly parents and the struggles and challenges they faced on a daily basis, especially when receiving minimal assistance and support. This has shown me how important support and community are for a caregiver’s well-being as it truly does take a village.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I enjoy visiting the families on a monthly basis and getting to know them. Having the opportunity to connect with the caregiver and the person they care for helps me build strong, trusting relationships. I feel that the team support, guidance, and education enhance the caregiving experience and help reduce caregiver burnout.

How do you contribute to Careforth’s mission and values?

I always try to lead with heart and cultivate trust. I aim to help each family feel more connected, bringing quality case management practices to each situation so I can build trust and improve their caregiving experience to prevent caregiver burnout. This highlights how important Careforth’s support is to many families.

What’s something interesting about your job that people may not know?

I have a caseload with several families from different cultural backgrounds; it exposes me to different languages and customs. Learning about and engaging with these different cultures has broadened my sense of community, collaboration, and connectedness.

How do you maintain a positive work-life balance in this field?

I’m grateful for the flexibility Careforth provides associates. I ensure that I make time for healthy habits, including prioritizing exercise on a regular basis. I also enjoy spending time with my daughter. I find maintaining a positive work-life balance is vital for my well-being. Personally, it has made me very efficient with my work while improving my physical and mental health at the same time.  

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in healthcare?

Approach people with a positive attitude and a warm disposition so they are comfortable and open to you. Provide a no-judgement zone and realistic solutions to issues. Ensure that your patients are always involved with their care, and you collaborate with them along the way.

What is one fun fact about you that your colleagues may not know about?

I love travelling—I’ve visited 12 countries and 22 states and hope to one day visit all 50 states.

What is your favorite quote?

“In a world where you can be anything, be kind.”

Thank you for reading this month’s edition of Faces of Careforth featuring Christine Dilgard. At Careforth, we strive to provide the resources and connections that ensure caregivers feel supported throughout their caregiving journey. If you’re inspired by Christine’s story and want to be a part of a team that leads with heart, cultivates trust, and goes beyond, visit our Careers page to learn more and explore our current openings.