As we age, managing our daily activities and health can become increasingly difficult, especially for those with chronic conditions. For families with an elderly loved one, it can be overwhelming trying to balance full-time jobs and care for their aging parent or grandparent. This is where a geriatric care manager can step in to help. This blog post will dive into what a geriatric care manager is, and how they can help seniors and their families as they age.
What is a geriatric care manager?
A geriatric care manager (GCM) is a trained and experienced professional who specializes in assisting seniors and their families with the aging process. GCMs are experts in all things aging, such as healthcare, social services, and finances. They can help their clients with a variety of issues, from deciding on the best living situation to organizing medical appointments and medications.
How can GCMs help seniors?
GCMs can make seniors’ lives easier by taking on responsibilities that the seniors themselves may not be able to manage. Some specific tasks GCMs can assist with include:
Assessing the senior’s needs
GCMs will complete a comprehensive evaluation to determine what type of care and support the senior needs. They will assess everything from their physical and emotional health to their financial situation.
Planning and coordinating care
Based on the initial assessment, GCMs will develop a care plan that is tailored to the senior’s unique needs. This plan can include anything from arranging transportation for medical appointments to managing medication schedules.
Advocating for the senior
GCMs can serve as the senior’s voice, making sure their needs and wishes are being heard and met. They can help the senior and their family navigate complicated healthcare and insurance systems, ensuring the senior is receiving the best care possible.
Providing emotional support
GCMs recognize the emotional toll aging can take on seniors and their families. They can provide companionship and connect seniors with resources such as support groups to help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Ensuring safety and security
GCMs can conduct a home safety assessment, identifying potential hazards and making sure the senior’s home environment is safe and secure.
As our loved ones age, it can be tough to balance their needs with our own. Geriatric care managers can provide an extra layer of care and support for seniors and their families. They can help seniors live full and meaningful lives while ensuring their health, safety, and social wellbeing. If you think your loved one could benefit from a GCM’s services, take the time to research and find a professional in your area. With a geriatric care manager by your side, the path to aging well can be much smoother.
