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What can a Geriatric Care Manager do for you?
Geriatric Care Management

As an adult are you a member of the "Sandwich Generation" - balancing work, children, family and now elder care? Are you caught in the middle of your family's needs, responsibilities for your parents, and the time to do it all? Are you concerned because you are at a distance or do not know which way to turn? It can be overwhelming, frustrating and most of all stressful.

One solution is to hire a Geriatric Care Manager. A GCM is a licensed social worker who specializes in assisting older people and their families facing elder care concerns and decisions. They help older adults to maintain their independence at home and can ease the transition to a new setting, if needed. Fees are based on a private pay, hourly fee for services.

Our services consist of the following:

  • Conduct care planning and assessments to identify and coordinate community resources and services.
  • Screen, arrange and monitor in-home help or other services
  • Visit weekly and regular phone calls
  • Offer counseling and support for caregivers and family members
  • Assist in arranging legal, financial and medical services
  • Provide consumer education and advocacy
  • Act as liaison to families at a distance
  • Review financial, legal or medical issues and offer referrals to geriatric specialists
  • Help with information or move to residential, assisted living or nursing home communities
  • Maintain the older adult at a maximum level of independence.

 

Why Utilize a Geriatric Care Manager?

One of the most difficult realizations is that someone we love can no longer care for themselves. Whether a planned or crisis situation, taking proper care can be overwhelming. How do you know when it is time to call a professional?

Look for these signs and ask yourself the following:

  • Are they taking the medications safely?
  • Can they live alone safely?
  • Have they become socially isolated?
  • Are changes in memory apparent or is there increased confusion?
  • Have they fallen recently and could not get help?
  • Are they losing or gaining weight?
  • Is it safe for your loved ones to drive? If not, who does the driving and errands for them?
  • Do they need short term or on-going assistance?
  • What community and social resources are available to help?
  • How can I get help as a primary caregiver?

Please contact the Elder Services Coordinator at JFS for further information at (203) 336-5438