In numerous areas of life, we turn to professionals to help us navigate unfamiliar territory. For example, you may use a financial advisor to help understand your finances and plan for the future, a CPA to do your taxes, or, you may contact an attorney to help with your legal needs.
However, when it comes to caring for our seniors, many people try to navigate through the world of elder care options, public benefits, and medical care without assistance. Just as a financial advisor can help you handle your finances; a geriatric Care Manager can help guide you through the world of elder care so you can provide the best possible care for your loved one.
What is a Care Manager?
A geriatric Care Manager is a professional who can provide practical help, advice and advocacy for seniors and caregivers. A Care Manager is an individual who has significant training in aging and senior care generally as a social worker, nurse, or other healthcare professional. Some care managers who are licensed RN’s might also call themselves “Nurse Advocates.” Care Managers are trained to identify any areas of concern for the senior and find resources to help the family caregiver or family create a plan so that the senior can live as safely as possible.
Ways a Care Manager Can Help
Some of the ways that a Care Manager can assist you in caring for your loved one are:
Evaluating the senior’s current living situation and determining if it is the best and safest option;
Arranging in-home care and home maintenance services including yardwork, Meals on Wheels and transportation;
Coordinating medical treatment by making appointments, attending doctor visits, recommending doctors and arranging for transportation;
Providing regular check-ins and assessments to see how the senior is doing and review their medication intake and vitals, if necessary;
Helping your loved one understand their financial, medical and legal needs and offering referrals to other professionals;
Creating short-term or long-term care plans;
Assistance with moving your loved one to an assisted living facility or nursing home; and
Providing stress relief for the family caregiver.
Additional Things to Keep in Mind
As opposed to some other types of professionals, Care Managers do not have state or federal licensing requirements or approval, though most have certifications in other fields such as social work or nursing. When looking for a Care Manager, do your research and check their references. Additionally, it is important to note that Care Manager services are usually not covered by insurance, Medicaid or Medicare. Most Care Managers charge hourly rates that are paid for out-of-pocket. However, many people find that using a Care Manager saves money in the long run because they can offer their expertise and support to struggling or stressed out family caregivers, to create a care plan specifically tailored to the senior’s needs.
The Law Office of Kate Curler, LLC works closely with Care Managers all over the Chicagoland area. If you believe that your family could benefit from working with a Care Manager, or if you have any questions about Care Managers, contact attorney Lauren Kaplan at lkaplan@curlerlaw.com or (312) 952-1077 for a free consultation.