When caring for an aging loved one, ensuring their well-being and managing the complex world of healthcare and daily living assistance can be overwhelming. This is where Geriatric Care Managers step in. But are these professionals worth the investment?
To answer this question, let’s explore what Geriatric Care Managers are, how they can be helpful, and why they may be worth the cost.
What Is a Geriatric Care Manager?
A Geriatric Care Manager, sometimes known as an Aging Life Care Manager, is a specialized type of health and human services professional, often with a background in nursing, social work, gerontology, or a related field.
These experts act as advocates and coordinators for older adults and their families, navigating the complexities of the aging process. They assess an individual’s needs, develop a personalized care plan, arrange services, and monitor the person’s care over time.
How Can Geriatric Care Managers Be Helpful?
1. Personalized Care Planning
Geriatric Care Managers assess an individual’s medical, psychological, social, and environmental needs to create a tailored care plan. This holistic approach ensures all aspects of their well-being are considered.
2. Navigating Medical Care
Care managers can help schedule and facilitate healthcare appointments, understand complex medical information, and communicate with healthcare providers to ensure the senior’s care is coordinated and effective.
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3. Advocacy
Geriatric Care Managers serve as the individual’s advocate in various settings, including medical appointments, legal issues, or family meetings, to ensure their wishes and needs are respected and met.
4. Resource Connection
Care managers have extensive knowledge about local resources and services for older adults, such as in-home care, transportation, meal programs, and social activities, ensuring all of their needs are met.
5. Family Support
Geriatric Care Managers help families make informed decisions and resolve conflicts about care choices, living arrangements, and other complex issues.
6. Ongoing Support and Monitoring
Geriatric Care Managers regularly check on and assess the individual’s situation, which is particularly valuable for families who live far from their loved ones. Care managers can respond to emergencies and any changes in the older adult’s health or living conditions.
Why Geriatric Managers Can Be Worth the Cost
1. Expertise
Geriatric Care Managers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that can save families time and prevent costly mistakes. Their expertise often leads to more efficient use of resources and better outcomes for clients and their families.
2. Cost Savings in the Long Run
By proactively managing health and avoiding crises, care managers can help reduce unnecessary hospitalizations, medical bills, and the high costs of emergency care.
3. Peace of Mind
Families often feel less stressed and more confident in their decisions with a Geriatric Care Manager’s guidance, which can be priceless. Knowing a professional oversees their loved one’s care can also provide significant emotional relief.
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4. Improved Quality of Life
With a care manager’s involvement, seniors often experience an improved quality of life — they get timely, coordinated care that respects their independence and desires.
Consideration of Geriatric Care Manager Costs
While the cost of hiring a Geriatric Care Manager may seem high at first glance, it’s important to consider the value of the services they provide. Care managers often charge an hourly rate or a flat fee for a comprehensive assessment and care plan. The investment can vary based on geographic location, the complexity of the senior’s needs, and the frequency of the care manager’s involvement.
As with any major decision regarding care, it’s crucial to carefully weigh the costs and benefits and consider the peace of mind and potential savings that a professional care manager could bring to your family.
Waverly Connect – Personalized Care Management Services
At Waverly Connect, our care managers provide personalized care management services, family consultations, placement assistance, resources, and support to individuals and families navigating changing lifecare needs throughout Philadelphia, Montgomery, Delaware, and Chester Counties.
Our services include:
- Care management
- Family consultations
- Placement assistance
- Resources
- Ongoing support
Discover Waverly Connect
Waverly Connect provides a comprehensive service for you and your loved one. We start with a thorough assessment and then create a personalized care plan to help you navigate the next steps successfully.
Moreover, we are committed to providing ongoing professional monitoring to ensure that your loved one always has the support of a skilled advocate with extensive experience in senior care.
