When Is a Geriatric Case Manager Needed?
When you're a caregiver for an elderly parent, you may wonder what a Geriatric Care Manager does and when you would need the services of one. What a Geriatric Care Manager does is organize what care is required when there is a change in your parent's situation. These workers consist of social workers, nurses, gerontologists, psychologists or other professionals who specialize in elder care.
They could be needed when there has been a health crisis or if your loved one needs to move into a nursing home or assisted care. They can also be helpful if there are multiple therapists or doctors involved in their care.
A Geriatric Case Manager can also help to handle disputes among family members, provide information about local community resources, assist with daily care if needed and even go to doctor appointments if necessary.
Other ways a Geriatric Case Manager can help
There are lots of different ways a case manager can help with your situation as well as many benefits. They can figure out your parent’s preferences and needs by conducting a thorough assessment. Plus, design a care plan which will be tailored to your parent and be willing to adapt it as necessary.
Also, a care manager can screen, hire and then monitor caregiving services and coordinate them as well. A case manager can give referrals to a home care agency, geriatrician and even an elder law attorney if needed. In addition, they can act as your, and your seniors advocate in many situations. If you live a distance away from your parent, they can be a liaise and update any changes in your parent's status and make sure all your parent's needs are met.
What to look for in a Geriatric Case Manager
One thing you want to make sure is to hire the right person for your unique situation. For example, if your parent has dementia, you’ll want a care manager who deals with that issue rather than one who specializes in problems with mobility. You also want a person who is compatible with the personality of your parent and other family members.
Other things to look for is to check the credentials and any different degrees which are held in the field of gerontology or social work. Also, check any references from other clients that give you an idea of the person's personal and professional skills. Be sure that the case manager has both the experience and skills to match what are the specific needs of your parent.
Questions to ask
When considering a potential case manager, there are questions you need to ask. Afterall, they are someone who is going to be trusted and let into your and your parent's lives. When you hire the right case manager, it can make a big difference in your parent's care. Remember too, that it doesn't have to be a final choice if it doesn't work out. If it isn't a good match, the case manager can probably even refer you to someone who would be a better match.
Some questions you may want to ask before making a decision are:
- Are you a single provider or are you part of a practice? If you aren't available, do you have a backup? Who would that be and what credentials do they have?
- Are you available for weekends and what times are you available during the week?
- If there is a problem or concern among your client's family members, how do you handle it? How do manage conflict?
- What kind of services do you provide and what kind do you not offer?
Hiring a Geriatric Care Manager for your parent’s care is a smart idea to look into to.