What Is A Geriatric Care Manager And How They Help?

Understanding Geriatric Care Managers

Geriatric care managers are professionals who play a vital role in assisting families in navigating the challenges of caring for older adults. With backgrounds in nursing, social work, gerontology, or counseling, these trained individuals provide expert guidance and support to ensure the well-being of older adults and their families.

What is a Geriatric Care Manager?

A geriatric care manager is a professional who specializes in helping families assess the needs of their older loved ones, develop care plans, and coordinate services to ensure seniors receive the care they require [2]. They act as a valuable resource and advocate for older adults and their families.

Roles and Responsibilities of Geriatric Care Managers

Geriatric care managers have a wide range of roles and responsibilities to support the well-being of older adults. Some of their key responsibilities include:

Geriatric care managers bring a wealth of expertise and knowledge to the table, helping families make informed decisions and improve the quality of life for older adults. Their dedication to providing comprehensive care and support makes them an essential part of the healthcare team for older adults.

Services Provided by Geriatric Care Managers

Geriatric care managers are trained professionals who play a vital role in supporting families and older adults in navigating the challenges of aging. They offer a range of services to ensure the well-being and quality of life for their clients. Here are some of the key services provided by geriatric care managers:

Assessing and Creating Care Plans

One of the primary responsibilities of a geriatric care manager is to assess the needs of older adults and create comprehensive care plans tailored to their unique requirements. They conduct thorough evaluations of the individual's physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being, taking into account factors such as medical conditions, medications, and support systems [4]. This assessment forms the basis for developing a personalized care plan that addresses the specific needs and goals of the older adult.

Coordinating Medical Services

Geriatric care managers play a crucial role in coordinating medical services for their clients. They work closely with healthcare providers, including doctors, specialists, and therapists, to ensure that all medical needs are met. This can involve scheduling appointments, managing medication regimens, and facilitating communication between different healthcare professionals [5]. By coordinating medical services, geriatric care managers help ensure that older adults receive the necessary care and support to maintain their health and well-being.

Managing Housing Transitions

As older adults face changes in their housing needs, geriatric care managers provide valuable assistance in managing these transitions. They help older adults and their families explore various housing options, such as assisted living communities or nursing homes, and provide guidance throughout the decision-making process. Geriatric care managers can also help with relocating and coordinating necessary services during the transition, ensuring a smooth and comfortable move.

In addition to these primary services, geriatric care managers may also offer additional support to older adults and their families. Here are a few examples:

Meal Delivery Programs and Friendly Visitor Services

Geriatric care managers may facilitate meal delivery programs that offer healthy and nutritious meals to older adults at home on a daily or weekly basis. These services can accommodate special diets and dietary restrictions, providing essential nourishment to older adults. Additionally, friendly visitor services may be arranged to provide companionship and social interaction for older adults who may be isolated or lonely.

Assistance with Activities of Daily Living

Geriatric care managers can assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), which include tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, using the toilet, eating, and mobility. They help older adults who require support with these activities by coordinating care provided by family members, friends, or trained aides. By ensuring that older adults receive the necessary assistance, geriatric care managers contribute to their overall well-being and independence.

Transportation Services

Transportation services provided by geriatric care managers can be vital for older adults who are no longer able to drive. They arrange transportation for medical appointments, shopping trips, and other essential outings within the community. These services may include discounted rates, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and other resources available through state and local agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private companies [5].

Geriatric care managers offer a wide range of services to support older adults and their families. By providing comprehensive care coordination, they help ensure that older adults receive the assistance they need while maintaining their dignity, independence, and quality of life.

Additional Services Offered by Geriatric Care Managers

In addition to their primary roles and responsibilities, geriatric care managers offer a range of supplementary services to support older adults and their families. These services aim to enhance the overall well-being and quality of life for seniors. Three common additional services provided by geriatric care managers include meal delivery programs and friendly visitor services, assistance with activities of daily living, and transportation services.

Meal Delivery Programs and Friendly Visitor Services

Geriatric care managers can facilitate meal delivery programs that offer healthy and nutritious meals to older adults at home on a daily or weekly basis. These programs often cater to special diets and dietary restrictions, ensuring that seniors receive the proper nutrition they need. While geriatric care managers do not typically assist with meal preparation or feeding, they can help coordinate the delivery of these meals to ensure that older adults have access to regular, balanced meals.

Alongside meal delivery programs, geriatric care managers may also provide friendly visitor services. These services involve volunteers who pay short visits to older adults, offering support, assistance, and companionship. The visits typically last less than two hours and aim to combat social isolation and provide emotional well-being for seniors. These friendly visitors can engage in conversations, play games, accompany seniors on outings, or simply provide a listening ear.

Assistance with Activities of Daily Living

Geriatric care managers recognize the importance of helping older adults with activities of daily living (ADLs). ADLs encompass essential everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, using the toilet, eating, and mobility. When seniors require assistance with these activities, geriatric care managers can provide guidance and support.

While the care may be provided by a family member, friend, or trained aide, geriatric care managers can help with coordinating and overseeing these services. They can help assess the specific ADL needs of older adults, recommend appropriate care options, and ensure that the necessary assistance is provided on a regular basis [5]. By assisting with activities of daily living, geriatric care managers contribute to maintaining the independence and dignity of older adults.

Transportation Services

For older adults who can no longer drive, geriatric care managers can arrange transportation services to help them remain connected to their community and access necessary resources. These services include providing rides to medical appointments, shopping centers, social events, and other locations. Geriatric care managers can help older adults navigate transportation options, which may include discounts, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and other resources available through local agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private companies.

By coordinating transportation services, geriatric care managers ensure that older adults can maintain a level of independence and continue to engage in activities outside of their home. This helps to combat isolation and supports overall well-being.

Geriatric care managers go beyond their primary responsibilities to provide these additional services, tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each older adult. By offering meal delivery programs, friendly visitor services, assistance with activities of daily living, and transportation services, geriatric care managers play a vital role in enhancing the lives of older adults and promoting their overall health and happiness.

Certification and Education for Geriatric Care Managers

Geriatric Care Managers play a vital role in providing comprehensive care and support for elderly individuals. To ensure they possess the necessary knowledge and skills, many professionals in this field pursue certification and education. Let's explore the Certified Geriatric Care Manager (CGCM) credential, its eligibility and renewal requirements, as well as educational paths and certification options.

Certified Geriatric Care Manager (CGCM) Credential

The Certified Geriatric Care Manager™ (CGCM™) credential, offered by the International Commission on Health Care Certification™ (ICHCC™), is dedicated to credentialing professionals providing case/care management services to elderly individuals with health or disability issues. This certification assesses knowledge of care planning and management principles for elderly individuals and those with disabilities. It is also suitable for Certified Life Care Planners™ (CLCP™), Canadian Certified Life Care Planners™ (CCLCP™), and rehabilitation counselors.

Eligibility and Renewal Requirements for CGCM

To be eligible for the CGCM™ examination, candidates must have completed an ICHCC-approved 40-hour CGCM training program and meet specific educational/degree criteria. This includes holding at least a bachelor's degree in a related field of health care, rehabilitation, gerontology, health care administration, case management, or law. However, nurses and paralegals are excluded from this requirement. Candidates must also have documented clinical experience in the field of gerontology, demonstrating competencies in patient assessment, care planning, and referral of services, among other areas.

The CGCM™ credential is subject to renewal every three years. Renewal options include submitting documentation of 15 clock hours of pre-approved and post-approved education, re-examination (if the credential has not expired), or a six-month extension. For renewal, at least 5 of the 15 hours must be focused on ethics, and documentation of education/training completion is required.

Educational Paths and Certification Options

Geriatric care managers typically have backgrounds in nursing, social work, gerontology, or counseling. While educational paths may vary, professionals in these fields can pursue additional training programs specifically designed for geriatric care management. These programs provide in-depth knowledge and skills needed to address the unique needs of elderly individuals and their families.

In addition to the CGCM™ credential, there may be other certification options available for geriatric care managers. These certifications may focus on specific areas within geriatric care management, providing professionals with specialized knowledge and expertise. Aspiring geriatric care managers should research and consider the certification options that align with their career goals and interests.

By obtaining certification and pursuing further education, geriatric care managers enhance their abilities to provide compassionate and effective care for elderly individuals. The CGCM™ credential and other educational paths equip these professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of geriatric care management, ensuring the well-being and quality of life for their clients.

Benefits of Hiring a Geriatric Care Manager

When it comes to caring for older adults, hiring a geriatric care manager can provide numerous advantages for both families and the elderly individuals themselves. These professionals bring expertise and knowledge in specialized care, and their services are in increasing demand due to the aging population.

Advantages for Families and Older Adults

Geriatric care managers help alleviate the pressure on family members by ensuring that the elderly receive appropriate care, support, and advocacy, enhancing the overall quality of care delivered to older adults. These professionals act as "professional relatives," providing comprehensive services related to elder care, especially when family caregivers cannot offer reliable support due to distance or other reasons. By having a geriatric care manager as a reliable resource, families can have peace of mind knowing that their loved ones are receiving the best possible care.

For older adults, having a geriatric care manager means having a dedicated professional who can assess their needs, create personalized care plans, coordinate medical services, and manage housing transitions [3]. These professionals serve as neutral decision-makers in challenging situations, where family caregivers may struggle with deeply personal choices, ensuring that the best interests and well-being of the elderly are prioritized. The support provided by geriatric care managers can significantly enhance the overall quality of life for older adults and their families.

Expertise and Knowledge in Specialized Care

Geriatric care managers are professionals with backgrounds in nursing, social work, gerontology, or counseling. They possess the expertise and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, understand available services, insurance coverage, and legal issues related to elder care. With their comprehensive understanding of the unique needs of older adults, geriatric care managers can create tailored care plans, coordinate services among healthcare providers, and advocate for their clients to ensure they receive appropriate care. Their specialized knowledge ensures that the elderly receive the best possible care and support.

Increasing Demand for Geriatric Care Managers

The profession of geriatric care management aligns well with the increasing elderly population and the growing need for specialized care and support for older adults. The share of the United States population over the age of 65 has risen to 16%, and it is expected to climb further to 23% by 2060, leading to an increased need for specialized healthcare services for the elderly. As a result, the demand for geriatric care managers is expected to increase, highlighting the importance of trained professionals who can help seniors and their families navigate the challenges of aging with compassion and expertise.

By hiring a geriatric care manager, families can ensure that their loved ones receive the specialized care and support they need, while older adults can benefit from the expertise of professionals dedicated to enhancing their well-being. With the increasing demand for geriatric care managers, these professionals play a vital role in addressing the unique needs of the aging population.

Cost and Value of Geriatric Care Managers

When considering the services of a geriatric care manager, it's important to understand the associated costs and the value they provide. Geriatric care managers offer specialized expertise and guidance tailored to the unique needs of older adults and their families.

Hiring Costs and Fee Structures

The cost of hiring a geriatric care manager can vary depending on several factors, including the location, scope of work, and duration of services. According to Arosa Care, the hourly rates for geriatric care managers typically range from $100 to $250 per hour. Initial assessments may incur higher fees, ranging from $150 to $750, depending on the complexity of the situation.

Some geriatric care managers may also offer flat monthly fees for specific services, allowing families to budget more predictably. The fee structure and payment arrangements can vary, so it's important to discuss these details during the selection process.

Value and Satisfaction of Hiring a Geriatric Care Manager

The value of hiring a geriatric care manager extends beyond monetary considerations. According to a survey conducted by the Florida Chapter of the Aging Life Care Association, 99% of families reported positive effects on their lives after hiring a geriatric care manager. These professionals bring specialized knowledge and expertise to address a wide range of needs for older adults and their families.

Geriatric care managers are trained across eight distinct bodies of knowledge, providing families with expertise in areas such as health, disability, financial affairs, housing options, family conflict resolution, and senior advocacy. Their comprehensive understanding of these aspects allows them to offer holistic and personalized care plans. This specialized knowledge brings peace of mind to families, knowing that their loved ones are receiving the best care possible.

The increasing aging population further emphasizes the value of geriatric care managers. According to Keystone Health, the population over the age of 65 in the United States is projected to rise to 23% by 2060. This demographic shift underscores the need for specialized healthcare services for older adults, making the role of geriatric care managers increasingly significant.

By hiring a geriatric care manager, families gain access to an experienced professional who can navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, organize care plans, advocate for their loved ones, and provide guidance in challenging decision-making situations. The value of their expertise and support extends far beyond the financial investment, offering peace of mind and improved quality of life for both older adults and their families.

The Role of Geriatric Care Managers in Healthcare

Geriatric care managers play a crucial role in the healthcare system, particularly in the care of older adults. They serve as knowledgeable guides who navigate the complexities of healthcare, advocate for their clients, and provide support to family caregivers. Let's explore the specific roles geriatric care managers play in healthcare.

Navigating the Complex Healthcare System

The healthcare system can be challenging to navigate, especially for older adults and their families. Geriatric care managers act as skilled navigators, helping their clients understand and access the appropriate healthcare services and resources. They have in-depth knowledge of the healthcare system, including medical terminology, insurance coverage, and available support programs.

By working closely with healthcare providers, geriatric care managers ensure that their clients receive the necessary medical care, including coordination of appointments, medication management, and assistance in understanding diagnoses and treatment options. They serve as a bridge between healthcare professionals, older adults, and their families, ensuring that everyone is on the same page regarding the care and treatment plan.

Advocacy and Decision Making

Geriatric care managers serve as advocates for their clients, especially in challenging situations where family caregivers may struggle with deeply personal choices. They act as neutral decision-makers, considering the best interests and preferences of the older adult. This impartiality helps alleviate the emotional burden on family members and ensures that decisions are made in the best interest of the client.

Geriatric care managers assist in complex decision-making processes, such as determining appropriate living arrangements, choosing between different treatment options, or making end-of-life care decisions. They provide guidance, support, and education to empower older adults and their families to make informed choices.

Support for Family Caregivers

Family caregivers often face significant challenges when caring for their aging loved ones. Geriatric care managers play a vital role in supporting family caregivers by providing assistance, education, and respite. They offer guidance on managing caregiver stress, providing effective care, and accessing community resources.

By working closely with family caregivers, geriatric care managers help alleviate the pressure and ensure that the elderly receive appropriate care and support. They offer peace of mind to adult children who may live far away from their aging parents, knowing that their loved ones are receiving the care they need.

Geriatric care managers bring expertise, knowledge, and a compassionate approach to the healthcare journey of older adults. They serve as trusted advocates, navigators, and supporters, enhancing the overall quality of care delivered to older adults and providing invaluable peace of mind to their families.

Geriatric Care Managers in Practice

When it comes to geriatric care management, Stowell Associates is a trusted provider in the field. Their team of geriatric care managers consists of registered nurses and master's-level social workers who are dedicated to addressing the physical, mental, and emotional needs of their clients and their families [8].

Thorough Training and Ongoing Support

Caregivers at Stowell Associates undergo thorough training to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge to provide quality care. They receive ongoing support from care managers who supervise and assess each unique client's caregiving services. This support system helps caregivers stay updated on the best practices and advancements in geriatric care.

To maintain and advance their skills, caregivers also participate in continued education programs. This commitment to ongoing learning allows them to provide the highest level of care to their clients.

Partnerships and Community Involvement

Stowell Associates believes in the power of collaboration and partnership. They have established partnerships with top attorneys, fiduciaries, hospitals, and senior living providers in Southeastern Wisconsin. These partnerships enable them to find the right solutions for their clients and serve as care partners in navigating the complexities of senior care.

Additionally, Stowell Associates supports the University of Milwaukee-Wisconsin by sponsoring a scholarship for nursing and social work students. This commitment to education showcases their dedication to advancing the field of geriatric care and nurturing future professionals in the industry.

Through their partnerships and community involvement, Stowell Associates demonstrates their commitment to providing comprehensive and holistic care to their clients. By working collaboratively with other professionals and organizations, they ensure that their clients receive the best possible care and support.

Stowell Associates stands out as a trusted provider of geriatric care management services. Their team of experienced care managers, comprehensive training programs, ongoing support, and community partnerships make them a reliable choice for families seeking high-quality care for their loved ones.

References

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