As our parents age, their needs often become more complex. From managing chronic health conditions to navigating the healthcare system, the challenges they face can be overwhelming. This is where a geriatric care manager (GCM) can be a valuable asset. A geriatric care manager is a professional who specializes in helping older adults and their families navigate the complexities of aging. Care managers can provide a wide range of services, including:
- Needs Assessment: A GCM can conduct a thorough evaluation to identify your parents’ physical, emotional, and cognitive needs. This information is essential for developing a personalized care plan
- Care Plan Development: Based on the assessment, the GCM can create a comprehensive care plan that addresses your parents’ specific needs. This plan may include recommendations for medical care, daily living assistance, transportation, and social activities.
- Care Coordination In Different Areas such as:
- Medical Care Coordination:
- Appointment Scheduling: Coordinating doctor’s appointments and follow-ups. Attend medical appointments.
- Medication Management: Ensuring proper medication usage and adherence through connection to medication management service.
- Medical Records: Requesting, Organizing and maintaining medical records.
- Insurance Claims: Assisting with follow ups related to insurance claims and coverage.
- Hospital Discharge Planning: Coordinating care after hospital stays.
- Living Arrangements:
- Home Safety Assessments: Identifying potential hazards in the home.
- Home Modifications: Suggesting modifications to improve safety and accessibility.
- Senior Living Options: Exploring assisted living, nursing homes, or home care.
- Relocation Assistance: Helping with the transition to a new living arrangement.
- Coordinating Home Health Services to assist with Activities of Daily Living Such As:
- Transportation: Arranging transportation for appointments, errands, or social activities.
- Meal Planning: Assisting with meal planning and preparation.
- Errands: Running errands such as grocery shopping or paying bills.
- Personal Care: Providing support with personal care tasks like bathing or dressing.
- Emotional and Social Support:
- Companionship: Coordination of companionship and social interaction.
- Emotional Support: Offering emotional support and counseling.
- Social Activities: Arranging social activities and connecting with peers.
- Caregiver Support: Providing resources and support for caregivers.
- Medical Care Coordination:
- Advocacy: GCMs can advocate for your parents’ rights and ensure that they receive the highest quality of care. This may involve communicating with healthcare providers, insurance companies, or government agencies on their behalf.
In essence, a geriatric care manager can serve as a trusted advisor, providing peace of mind and ensuring that your parents’ needs are met. By working with a GCM, you can help your parents age gracefully and maintain a high quality of life.
Would you like to learn more about how a geriatric care manager assist? Call us for a free 30-minutes consultation at 305.204.7392. Click here to contact us via email.
Disclaimer: this blog is for informational use only. It is not intended to serve as, or replace, legal, psychological and medical advice. Florida Patient Advocate is a program owned and operated by RK Care Group http://www.rkcaregroup.com