When To Consider Geriatric Care Management

When it comes time to investigate the continued care of an elderly loved one, families often focus on a wide spectrum of needs.   Often the utmost concern is for an elderly individual to remain as independent as possible in the comfort of the home. This may lead to a transition period where daily personal care and peace of mind for the older adult puts the concept of overall geriatric care management (GCM) on the back burner.

A Geriatric Care Manager isn’t just an aide or a companion. Instead, a GCM is a health care professional who can provide a comprehensive assessment of an elder’s needs. Their role is to then develop a manageable plan of care based on the cognitive, psychological, social, and physical challenges of aging. They are available to help recognize and balance the elder’s needs and wishes with a realistic course of treatment.

One of the most important questions families often have is when to consider a GCM. You should look into Geriatric Care Management...

• When family members live at a distance from an elder and have a difficult time contacting local services, talking with doctors, and otherwise engaging available services.
• If there is a change in circumstances for a loved one, such as a change in home environment or location, a change in medical or cognitive status, and/or if the elder in question is refusing care.
• When siblings and other family members experience conflicts and disagreements regarding the care of loved one. A GCM can act as a mediator to talk through and hopefully resolve family conflicts so that that needs and best interests of the elder continue to be addressed.

At Garden State ElderCare, we work to ensure that there is a good chemistry and relationship between the family, the elder, and the GCM. We believe you should always feel that the GCM is compassionate, attentive and understands the concerns of all involved. Contact us today to learn how we match an elder and his or her family with the right GCM.