What is a Geriatric Care Manager, aka a GCM, or Elder Care Manager?
A geriatric care manager is a trained professional who can work very closely with you to find practical care solutions for elderly loved ones in need of some help.
Your GCM will first assess an elder's needs by arranging a consultation. After that, the elder care manager can then recommend individualized services available to fit into your budget and needs. Also, if needed, they can follow up and continue to monitor the senior's care on an ongoing basis to provide feedback to you.
Eldercare managers are often called upon to provide one-time services for elders in an immediate crisis situation. This could be consultation, or simply resolving your pressing issues as quickly as possible so you can move forward. It can include finding an appropriate rehab facility after a medical procedure, placing a caregiver to help out a few hours a day, finding a housekeeper, or even finding someone who can provide some companionship for the elder.
Of course, you can use a care manager to assist in finding out about, and filling out, proper applications for any type of financial assistance they might be eligible for too.
Some of the types of people who currently use Creative Alliance's care management services are:
- Families needing a one time professional evaluation for a loved one.
- Those separated geographically, who need assistance with a remotely located elder's care.
- Families overwhelmed trying to understand the elder's needs, or all the care options available to them.
- Those needing short term assistance coordinating medical rehab for a senior.
- Hospitals and other healthcare providers.
- Social Service Providers.
- Senior Housing Communities.
- Banks and Trust Officers.
- Physicians and Allied Health Professionals.
- Attorneys.
In short, a geriatric care manager is really a jack of all trades, whose basic job is to access your elder's unique situation, and recommend what types of options are available for their care. If you then need additional help, the manager can set up, and follow through with the options you choose to go forward with.
Creative Alliances • 135 South Huntington Ave • Boston, MA 02130 • 617-731-1414
