|
Geriatric Care Managers
Geriatric care managers (GCMs) function as a "surrogate" family
member when the actual family is absent, far away or simply busy with their
own family and/or work schedule. They usually hold a minimum of a bachelor's
degree or substantial equivalent training in gerontology, social work, nursing
or counseling. GCMs have extensive knowledge about the costs, quality and availability
of services in the local community with which they use to educate their clients
so the best choices can be made.
Below are the questions we will address in this section:
What kinds of services do Geriatric Care Managers offer?
Geriatric Care Managers provide a variety of services. The following are common examples of the
assistance they can provide:
- Acting as a liaison between professionals (such as elder law attorneys, financial
planners, trust officers, physicians and other professionals) and the family/caregiver
- Coordinating a loved one's move into a care facility
- General consulting on your loved one's care plan
- Grocery shopping
- Ordering a plumber, gardener or other general contractor
- Ordering, managing and monitoring the care of your loved one at home
- Paying bills
- Arranging or providing trips to doctors' offices
- Providing 24-hour availability in case of emergencies (such as an emergency trip
to the hospital)
^ Back to Top
How do I pay for a Geriatric Care Manager's services?
The services of a GCM are paid for privately and usually cost between $50 to $150/hour, depending on the services offered and where you live. The initial assessment is usually more costly (a one-time fee ranging from $100 to $250, depending on the time frame and geographical area being served), because the GCM spends significant time collecting accurate and complete information about the individual in order to ensure a better quality of life at home or in an adult community.
^ Back to Top
How can I locate a Geriatric Care Manager nearest to my loved one or me?
http://www.caremanager.org/
^ Back to Top
What questions should I ask when interviewing Geriatric Care Managers?
- Are you licensed in your profession?
- Are you reachable on a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week basis for emergency purposes?
- How many years of experience do you have working in this field?
- May I contact references?
- What are your costs/fees?
- What are your degrees/credentials and what training do you have?
^ Back to Top
|
|
