What Is A Senior or Geriatric Care Manager?
A geriatric care manager, also known as an aging life care professional or a senior care manager, is a case manager specializing in assisting older adults with various aspects of aging and healthcare management. Their primary role is to help individuals and their loved ones navigate the complexities of aging, coordinate and oversee care services, and enhance the overall quality of life for older adults
Senior Care Management at Heavenly Care
At Heavenly Care, we can connect you with the best senior care management and consulting in all areas, including medical, social, emotional, and legal. Below are ways Heavenly Care and Care Management can provide support.
Medical
- Assisting with medication management, including organizing and administering medications as prescribed.
- Scheduling and accompanying an older adult to medical appointments and helping navigate palliative care when needed.
- Communicating with healthcare professionals and relaying information to the older adult and their family.
- Monitoring and documenting changes in an older adult’s health and wellness, beginning with the initial assessment.
- Coordinating assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) related to personal hygiene, mobility, and nutrition.
Social
- Engaging in social activities and companionship to prevent feelings of loneliness and isolation that sometimes come with age and change in abilities.
- Organizing and facilitating outings, social events, or visits with friends and family.
- Assisting with maintaining social connections through phone calls, video chats, or social media.
- Encouraging participation in community programs, clubs, or senior centers.
- Supporting the older adult in pursuing hobbies, interests, and recreational activities.
Emotional
- Providing emotional support and empathy to both the individual and family caregivers.
- Encouraging and facilitating meaningful conversations and connections with loved ones.
- Monitoring and addressing signs of depression, anxiety, or cognitive decline.
- Offering reassurance, active listening, and validation of the older adult’s feelings and concerns.
- Collaborating with mental health professionals when necessary.
Financial
- Providing guidance on financial planning, such as retirement savings, health insurance, and estate planning.
- Identifying and applying for financial assistance programs or benefits for which the older adult may be eligible.
- Collaborating with financial advisors or professionals to ensure the older adult’s financial affairs are in order.
- Preventing financial exploitation by monitoring for signs of scams or undue influence.
- Helping navigate the complexities of long-term care insurance.
Legal
- Assisting with organizing and maintaining legal documents, such as wills, powers of attorney, and advance directives.
- Facilitating communication with legal professionals to ensure legal matters are properly addressed.
- Explaining legal options and providing guidance on decision-making processes.
- Assisting in navigating legal issues related to guardianship, conservatorship, or long-term care.
- Ensuring the older adult’s rights and wishes are respected and protected.
Holistic, Compassionate Care for Older Adults
We understand that the needs of older adults go beyond physical health, extending to emotional, social, and mental well-being. We believe that it is an honor and a privilege to care for the older adults in the Greater Austin communities. If your loved one requires support in any aspect related to aging, Heavenly Caregiver is here to help you navigate these challenging changes.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Geriatric Care Management Services
How Does a Senior Care Manager Protect Older Adults?
Senior care managers protect older adults through comprehensive assessments, personalized care plans, healthcare advocacy, safety assessments, abuse prevention, financial oversight, and legal support, enhancing their well-being and safety.
Does a Care Manager Take the Place of a Power of Attorney?
No, a geriatric care manager does not take the place of a power of attorney. A power of attorney is a legal document that designates someone to make financial or legal decisions on behalf of another person, known as the principal, if they become incapacitated. The power of attorney has legal authority to act on behalf of the principal based on the terms specified in the document.
How Can the Family Work Together With the Geriatric Care Manager?
The collaboration between the family and the geriatric care manager is essential to ensure the well-being and quality of care for the older adult. Here are some ways in which they can work together effectively:
Establishing Open Communication
The family and senior care manager should establish clear and open lines of communication. Regular meetings, either in person or virtually, can provide an opportunity to discuss the older adult‘s evolving needs, share updates, and address any concerns or questions.
Sharing Information
The family should provide the senior care manager with relevant information about the older adult‘s medical history, current medications, preferences, and any significant changes in their condition. This information allows the care manager to develop a comprehensive care plan and make informed decisions.
Collaborating on Care Planning
A senior care manager can involve family members in the development of a care plan, seeking their input and considering their goals and wishes for an older adult‘s care. The family’s insights and knowledge about the older adult can contribute to creating a more personalized and effective care approach.
Coordinating Care Services
The senior care manager can work closely with the family to coordinate and oversee the delivery of care services. This includes coordinating medical appointments, arranging for home care assistance, and ensuring that the older adult‘s needs are met effectively.
Providing Emotional Support
Caring for an older adult can be emotionally challenging for families. The senior care manager can offer emotional support and guidance to both the older adult and family members, helping everyone navigate the emotional aspects of caregiving and providing resources for additional support.
Sharing Expertise and Education
Geriatric care managers can educate and empower family members by providing information, resources, and guidance on various aging-related topics. This helps families make informed decisions and understand the options available for the older adult‘s care and well-being.
Advocating for the Older Adult
The senior care manager can advocate for the older adult‘s rights and well-being, ensuring their preferences are respected and their voice is heard. This may involve advocating for appropriate healthcare, addressing concerns with service providers, or assisting in navigating complex systems or legal matters.
By working together collaboratively, the family and the care manager can combine their knowledge, resources, and expertise to provide comprehensive, coordinated, and person-centered care for the older adult. The care manager acts as a supportive guide, helping the family navigate the complexities of caregiving and ensuring the older adult receives the best possible care and support.
