What is a Geriatric Care Manager?
Caring for an aging parent or loved one can be overwhelming, especially when navigating complex medical, legal, and financial decisions. A geriatric care manager (GCM) can be an invaluable resource in ensuring your loved one receives the best possible care while easing the burden on family caregivers. But what exactly do geriatric care managers do, and how can they help? Let’s explore their role and benefits.
What Is a Geriatric Care Manager?
A geriatric care manager, also known as an aging life care professional, is a trained expert—typically a nurse, social worker, or gerontologist—who specializes in coordinating and managing care for older adults. They assess an aging individual’s needs, develop a care plan, and provide guidance to families navigating elder care.
How Can a Geriatric Care Manager Help?
Geriatric care managers offer a range of services tailored to the unique needs of older adults and their families, including:
1. Comprehensive Assessments
A GCM evaluates a senior’s physical, cognitive, and emotional health, as well as their living environment, to determine what care and support they need.
2. Care Coordination
They collaborate with healthcare providers, home care agencies, and other professionals to ensure a seamless care experience.
3. Advocacy and Guidance
Aging life care professionals serve as advocates, ensuring that seniors receive appropriate medical treatment and that their wishes are respected.
4. Crisis Management
When unexpected health issues arise, a GCM can step in to navigate hospital stays, rehabilitation, or long-term care transitions.
5. Family Support and Mediation
Many families face disagreements about care decisions. A GCM can help mediate conflicts and provide objective recommendations.
6. Assistance With Legal and Financial Planning
While not attorneys or financial advisors, GCMs can connect families with elder law professionals and financial planners to address estate planning, Medicaid eligibility, and other concerns.
When Should You Hire a Geriatric Care Manager?
If you find yourself overwhelmed by caregiving responsibilities or struggling to manage your loved one’s care from a distance, a geriatric care manager may be the right solution. They are particularly helpful when:
A senior has complex medical conditions requiring multiple specialists.
Families live far away and need a local expert to oversee care.
There is conflict among family members regarding care decisions.
The aging adult is resistant to help, making communication difficult.
How to Find a Qualified Geriatric Care Manager
When looking for a GCM, consider professionals certified by organizations like the Aging Life Care Association (ALCA). You can search for accredited care managers through ALCA’s directory or ask for recommendations from doctors, elder law attorneys, or senior service agencies.
Final Thoughts
A geriatric care manager can be an essential ally in ensuring your aging loved one receives high-quality care while reducing stress on family caregivers. By offering expertise, coordination, and advocacy, they help families navigate the challenges of aging with confidence. One geriatric care manager described her experience working with Dahlia:
“Dr. Soones listens… and then thinks inside and outside the box - trying to figure out how to best care for them. I feel so fortunate that finally, they are receiving the proper care that they so deserve, and she is able to keep their long distance loved ones on top of their health needs as well. It’s a win-win for everyone!!”
If you need help managing a loved one’s care, Dahlia will collaborate with your geriatric care manager to explore your options and create a plan that meets your family’s unique needs.