The Caring Corner®
Do We Need a Geriatric Care Manager?
As the population ages, the demand for geriatric care managers is growing. Geriatric care managers are professionals who help older adults and their families navigate the complex healthcare system. They can provide a variety of services, including:
- Assessment and evaluation
- Care planning
- Coordination of care
- Advocacy
- Education
Geriatric care managers can be a valuable resource for older adults and their families. They can help to ensure that older adults receive the care they need and that their families are supported.
If you are considering hiring a geriatric care manager, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Experience: Look for a geriatric care manager who has experience working with older adults and their families. They should have a good understanding of the healthcare system and the challenges that older adults face.
- Certification: Geriatric care managers are not required to be certified, but certification can be a sign of quality and experience. The National Association of Geriatric Care Managers offers a certification program for geriatric care managers.
- Cost: The cost of hiring a geriatric care manager can vary depending on the services they provide. Some geriatric care managers charge a monthly fee, while others charge an hourly rate.
- Availability: Geriatric care managers are not always available in all areas. If you are unable to find a geriatric care manager in your area, you may need to consider hiring a care manager who works remotely.
Once you have found a geriatric care manager, you will need to work with them to develop a care plan for your loved one. The care plan should address your loved one’s physical, emotional, and social needs. It should also include a list of the services that will be provided and the cost of those services.
Working with a geriatric care manager can be a great way to ensure that your loved one receives the care they need. Geriatric care managers can provide a variety of services and can help to navigate the complex healthcare system. By taking the time to find a qualified geriatric care manager, you can be sure that your loved one is in good hands.
Here are some tips for working with a geriatric care manager:
- Be open and honest. It is important to be open and honest with your geriatric care manager about your loved one’s needs and preferences. This will help them to develop a care plan that is tailored to your loved one’s specific needs.
- Be involved. You should be involved in the care plan process and should be kept updated on your loved one’s progress. You should also be comfortable asking questions and expressing concerns.
- Be patient. It may take some time to find the right geriatric care manager for your loved one. Be patient and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
