According to the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers: www.caremanager.org
“Professional geriatric care management is a holistic, client-centered approach to caring for older adults or others facing ongoing health challenges. Working with families, geriatric care manager expertise provides the answers at a time of uncertainty. Their guidance leads families to the actions and decisions that ensure quality care and an optimal life for those they love, thus reducing worry, stress and time off of work for family caregivers.”
Beyond the limited scope of traditional health or social service professionals, Geriatric Care Managers are family life coaches, counselors and advocates who offer expert guidance on a wide range of areas including, but not limited to: Housing, financial management, medical management, hospital discharge planning, home environment safety, home care, dementia care, elder law & advocacy, government benefits and entitlements, community resource utilization, mental health, communication and social activities.
- Assessment to identify specific needs
- Development of short and long term goals
- Coordination and monitoring of home care services
- A comprehensive care plan to address problem areas
- Counseling and family caregiver support
- Monitoring of financial, legal and medical areas of concern
- Access to community services and entitlements such as Medicaid
- Crisis prevention and intervention
- Assistance with long term care coordination and transitions across care settings
- Help clients comply with medications and doctor recommendations
- Arrange supportive services such as meal delivery, transportation, bill paying, housekeeping and handyman services
- Arrange for safety devices and medical equipment such as emergency response systems, grab bars, shower chairs, rollators, and wheelchairs
- Referral services to qualified elder law attorneys and geriatric medical specialists, when needed