John Mitchell was more than just an elder law attorney; he was a confidant to families during their most vulnerable moments. Known for his sharp legal mind and compassionate demeanor, John played a pivotal role in helping families navigate difficult situations. One such family was the Andersons, who approached him to draft end-of-life planning documents for their mother, Jane, who was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. However, John’s involvement extended beyond paperwork — he noticed the deeper challenges the family was facing.
A Family’s Hidden Struggles with Alzheimer’s
Jane, a retired school principal, was fiercely independent. Her Alzheimer’s diagnosis was a devastating blow, not only because of the illness but also due to her deep fear of becoming a burden to her children. The Anderson family — comprised of two sons and a daughter — understood the need to get legal affairs in order to honor their mother’s wishes. Yet, during their meetings, John observed subtle but telling signs: whispered conversations about care routines, signs of exhaustion on the siblings’ faces, and Jane’s occasional confusion.
John, having worked with many families affected by Alzheimer’s, understood that the Andersons were grappling with more than just legal concerns. He saw the emotional toll of caregiving and the difficulty of balancing practical responsibilities with personal well-being. He realized they needed more than legal advice — they needed comprehensive support.
Introducing the Role of a Geriatric Care Manager
During an afternoon meeting with Jane, her husband, and the children gathered to finalize documents, John gently raised a new topic.
“The legalities are just one part of this journey,” he explained. “Managing Alzheimer’s care takes a broader approach. Have you considered working with an Aging Life Care Manager®?”
The Andersons were unfamiliar with the concept of an Aging Life Care Manager®, often also known as a geriatric care manager. John explained how a care manager could guide them through the complexities of care decisions and provide personalized recommendations. His suggestion resonated with the family, who saw it as a way to bring much-needed structure and support to their situation.
With their consent, John contacted one of our care managers at Waverly Connect and shared his observations about the family’s needs. He assured the Andersons that their information would remain confidential, fostering trust from the start.
Building Trust with a Care Assessment
The care manager promptly contacted the Andersons and spoke with Jane’s husband to arrange an initial meeting. The entire family wanted to be involved, emphasizing their collective dedication to Jane’s care. At the family’s home, the care manager met with them and found a close-knit, loving family eager to provide the best care for their wife and mother.
During the meeting, the care manager outlined the process, explaining that it would begin with a detailed assessment of Jane’s physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. After the evaluation, the care manager would provide recommendations, but the family would make the final decisions regarding Jane’s care. The care manager also assured them of continued involvement, offering to implement chosen solutions and monitor care through regular home visits.
The Andersons agreed to move forward, and together with the care manager, they embarked on a journey to support Jane in every way possible.
Crafting a Comprehensive Care Plan
Working closely with the family, the care manager developed a comprehensive care plan that addressed Jane’s medical needs while fostering engagement and joy. Music and art therapy became essential parts of her routine, helping her reconnect with cherished memories and experience moments of clarity.
The care manager also helped the siblings establish a structured care schedule, ensuring each family member had designated responsibilities. This arrangement provided the siblings with much-needed balance, allowing them to care for Jane while still managing their personal lives and taking time to recharge.
Home care became a crucial component of Jane’s support system. The care manager collaborated with a local home care agency to arrange for caregivers to assist with daily tasks. Unscheduled visits by the care manager ensured that the quality of care remained consistent, with any concerns promptly addressed in partnership with the agency.
Ensuring Consistent Communication and Support
The care manager accompanied Jane to medical appointments and ensured that all family members were informed about her condition and care plan. This open communication created unity within the family, keeping everyone aligned on the best course of action.
Additionally, the care manager introduced the family to Alzheimer’s support groups, providing a platform where the Andersons could share experiences, learn from others, and gain emotional strength from a supportive community.
Together, the family and care manager ensured Jane’s care was cohesive, with every stakeholder — from healthcare providers to family members — on the same page, honoring both her wishes and well-being.
A Family’s Gratitude
Months later, John Mitchell received a heartfelt letter from the Anderson family.
“While we approached you for legal guidance, you offered us much more,” the letter read. “Your recommendation of an Aging Life Care Manager not only ensured our mother’s well-being but also gave us a renewed sense of hope. Today, we navigate this journey with clarity and the assurance of support at every step.”
The synergy between John’s legal expertise and Waverly Connect’s comprehensive care management services provided the Andersons with a holistic support system. Together, they ensured that Jane’s wishes and well-being were respected, giving the family peace of mind and turning an overwhelming situation into a manageable journey.
Supporting Families Through Holistic Care
Whether you are an elder law attorney or a family member concerned about the care of a loved one, partnering with a care manager can make a significant difference. If you’re ready to explore how care management can lighten the load and ensure the well-being of your entire family, contact us today at Waverly Connect. Let’s discuss how we can create a tailored support system to meet your unique needs.
