<CLICK HERE to listen to the podcast> This is the last in a series of four discussions with Lisa Mayfield, Aging Wisdom’s principal and founder, and Suzanne Newman, founder and CEO of Answers for Elders.
What does an Aging Life Care Professional do (aka geriatric care manager)? As Lisa shares with Suzanne, “We are a group of professionals who serve as consultants to individuals and their families who are navigating changes in health and changes in memory.”
We’re professionals that individuals and families can hire to help guide them through the complicated, overwhelming, and confusing system of long-term care choices and how best to choose what works best for their unique situation from so many options.
Suzanne tells her personal story, which is very common, of going it alone without the guidance of an Aging Life Care expert. “When I was navigating that world as a daughter, way back when, I listened a lot to my mom about what she wanted. And although there was a little voice in the back of my head saying this is probably not the right fit, I didn’t have the toolbox to be able to guide her.
I ended up moving my mother four times. And that is heartbreaking, because had I made the right decision in advance, she would have not had to move. I didn’t know what I didn’t know, and had I hired somebody like you, I can imagine my world would have been so much easier for on me as well as on her.”
We appreciate how Suzanne, in retrospect, is one of our biggest cheerleaders and understands the value and benefits of hiring a care manager before or when you’re in the midst of needing coaching and assistance on making decisions and finding the best solutions.
And as Lisa reflects, we are now seeing the adult children of our former clients coming to us for consultation and proactive planning ahead of a possible crisis or change in health or memory. Or, they have a health change that has prompted the need to explore options and make plans for what’s ahead.
We also help spouses and partners who must make decisions on behalf of their significant other. It can feel very isolating and overwhelming. We offer support as are an objective, knowledgeable guide during those difficult times.
Curious to understand how Care Management might be of value? Click here to schedule a call with one of our Certified Care Managersto explore the options.
Additional Reading and Resources:
- What is Aging Life Care? (Aging Wisdom blog article)
- Assembling your support team (Aging Wisdom blog article)
- Ongoing Support – Care Management (link to Care Management webpage)