How and Why to Hire a Geriatric Care Manager

If you are concerned about the well-being of an older adult or are an older adult who is struggling with health or financial concerns, then you might want to use the services of a geriatric care manager.

Geriatric care managers are people who have knowledge and experience in working with older adults who may no longer be able to manage their own finances, need assistance in obtaining needed home care or health care services, making living arrangements, or making plans for long-term care needs or their future care needs.

A geriatric care manager is most often privately hired though some geriatric care managers might be found through social service programs or senior centers. The services of a geriatric care manager may seem expensive but these professionals know how to navigate the maze of health, social, legal and financial issues relative to the needs of seniors.

Here are some specific services which most geriatric care managers provide:

1. Help in arranging for home-based services such as chore workers, health aides and transportation.
2. Review of finances and insurance to ascertain if an individual qualifies for financial assistance programs
3. Assistance in locating an assisted living home, retirement community or HUD housing.
4. Explanation of insurance benefits and coverage; qualification for services.
5. Review of advance directives, living will, durable power of attorney.
6. Help with obtaining medical services, communication with health care professionals.
7. Locating community services that may be of benefit especially for the older adult who needs assistance to remain living independently in the community.

How can you find a geriatric care manager?

One excellent way to start your search is to contact your local senior center. You can phone the Elder Care Locator, a federally sponsored hotline at 1 – 800 – 677 – 1116.

Or visit the National Association of Geriatric Care Managers at www.caremanager.org

Even if you don’t feel a geriatric care manager is needed today, it’s good to do some research now so that if and when the need arises then you and your loved one can be prepared.

 

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