What Geriatric Care Managers do
Assessment. When you first hire a geriatric care manager, he'll meet
with your loved one (and family members, if appropriate) to evaluate the
current situation. He'll assess your loved one's physical environment and
mental, social, and emotional functioning and independence. Based on this
assessment and conversations with family members, the GCM will identify your
loved one's care needs.
Plan of care. Once the assessment is complete, the GCM will make
recommendations about the types of care your loved one needs. He'll meet with
you to review these recommendations in detail and get your feedback. He'll note
recommendations in a written plan of care. As care progresses or as care needs
change, the care manager will note progress in the plan of care and make
updates as needed.
Coordination of services. A geriatric care manager can be as actively involved in the
care of your loved one as you need him to be; be sure to clarify expectations
at the outset. Most GCMs know all the senior care providers in your area and
are well prepared to help you find the best match for your loved one. You can
expect him to help you find agencies to provide in-home care, hospice, or
skilled nursing care, as well as to coordinate the comings and goings of the
caregivers. If your loved one needs residential care, the GCM will help you
find the best assisted living or nursing home that meets your loved one's needs
and fits within your budget. Some GCMs will also help with day-to-day care for
your loved one -- picking up prescriptions, taking your loved one to doctor
appointments, or visiting for regular check-ins.
Family support. GCMs also provide invaluable support to family members as
they cope with a loved one's decline or illness. They can help smooth
communication and mediate disagreements.
Ideas, products, and innovations. GCMs are always on the lookout for new types of services
and tools to make caregiving easier and to help keep your loved one safe. Many
will be able to tell you about new technologies, tools, or aids that help your
loved one maintain independence and mobility for as long as possible.
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