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Who We Are

Individuals with degrees in the field of human services (social work, psychology, gerontology) or substantial equivalent (i.e. RN), who are certified or licensed at the independent practice level in their state are professionals practicing private Geriatric Care Management.

What We Do

Geriatric Care Managers are contacted by adult children or other family members (including those living at a distance from their elders), and referrals from attorneys, hospitals, nursing homes, physicians, community agencies, employee assistance programs, and the general public.

While trying to take care of elderly parents, may adult children find it helpful to bring in a professional with expertise in senior care issues. A geriatric care manager specializes in assessing; identifying needs and providing short and long term care solutions. Private care managers do not receive any compensation for any suggested referrals.

Geriatric Care Managers can:

• Perform in-home or alternative placement.
• Screen, arrange, and monitor short and long term senior services.
• Act as a liaison to families at a distance and advocate for families.
• Offer consulting services and support.
• Provide education and referral services.
• Offer crisis intervention and long term care management services.

When to Involve Us

Geriatric Care Managers can work with families and elders to develop a plan prior to the need for services in addition to intervening in situations that have occurred suddenly. The goal is for care managers to identify issues before they arise and develop contingency plans, rather than wait until they become a major problem. Sometimes, care managers are brought into a situation by another professional who is seeking guidance from a geriatric specialist. Care managers services to clients along a continuum; some may still be living independently in the community while others are residents of a senior housing complex or nursing facility.

Many times Geriatric Care Managers are contacted after an immediate crisis. Care Managers can assist families at that time but care managers also advocate for families to plan for possible future needs before the actual crisis occurs. Having a care manager assess the current situation will provide guidance for the family to meet immediate needs but it will also provide information about future anticipated needs. Geriatric care management services are also beneficial to other professionals that are working with the families to make sure all problems have been identified and services have been offered. Care management services are provided to families whether they are living independently or in an alternative living situation.

The Assessment Process
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An important part of the care manager's role is the initial assessment, which may last a few hours. During the assessment, care managers will explore client needs and determine how to build upon existing strengths. After an assessment, a care plan can be developed. Recommendations, guidance and referrals are offered.

The care manager's role does not have to end once the needed services are arranged. Care managers can also offer ongoing monitoring of the situation, and often long-term relationships are developed between the clients, family and care manager.

Care managers will often meet with families and seniors in their own home or a place of their choice. It is often helpful to have all involved parties present during some or all of the initial assessment to ensure that an accurate assessment is provided.