In this podcast, our colleagues Sheila and Keri provide a snapshot of the many ways a Care Manager (aka Aging Life Care Professional) can offer guidance, coordination, crisis intervention, and most importantly, peace of mind. A Care Manager is an essential tool in a client’s resources toolbox.
Care Managers help in a multiple of ways. Here are a few examples of how we’ve assisted in a variety of situations, from preventing falls to managing care costs to recommendations for supports to remain at home.
Consultations. Sometimes families and friends meet with us separately, not involving the individual for whom there is concern, initially, be it a parent, spouse, or close friend. They may be worried about the person in their care remaining at home safely, or how best to manage a new health diagnosis, or managing resistance to help.
Other times, it’s a valid concern about money and the cost of care. Or Aunt Sally hasn’t set up her powers of attorney, or she doesn’t have a will or advance directives, and she has a cognitive impairment. They’re seeking advice on what they should do to make sure the person in their care is protected.
When we have a consultation, we’re looking at the immediate as well as the big picture. We help with next steps, recommendations, and resources. Oftentimes families will ask us for our assistance to implement next steps.
Home assessments. During an assessment, we observe and assess the client within their own home. We’re looking head-to-toe, not in a medical evaluation approach, but in a daily living and life management approach. We also assess the home for safety and what could make it easier for the client to remain in their home.
As Care Managers, we can serve as the point person to help with navigation, guidance, and implementation. We listen. We educate. We advocate. We coach. We reduce stress. We help clients save time and money.
Want to explore the benefits of working with a Care Manager? Click here to schedule a get-acquainted call with a Certified Care Manager.
RESOURCES
- What is Aging Life Care?– fact sheet
- Falls Prevention: From Awareness to Action– blog
- The Dance: Finding Balance When Helping an Aging Parent– article
- Aging Wisdom’s Services brochure– downloadable