Benefits of Geriatric Care Management Services
Anyone who has taken on the role of a caregiver can probably tell you that this is a journey full of ups and downs, and that at many points along the way there may be confusion about which direction to go. Many caregivers report feelings of stress and anxiety related to not knowing if they are making the right decisions or helping their loved one receive the best care possible. Fortunately, a Geriatric Care Manager (GCM) can help act as a guide or an ally throughout this journey, to ensure that both the caregiver and care recipient are able to access and understand the options available while providing emotional support every step of the way. A GCM specializes in assisting older adults and families by providing education, counseling, advocacy, and care planning to meet both their present needs and to help in planning for the future.
In utilizing a GCM, and having a trusted professional to turn to, families can save time and money, while decreasing stress and anxiety and gaining peace of mind in the process. A Geriatric Care Manager can create a personalized and comprehensive plan of care, outlining community resources and benefits available, can act as a liaison for long distance caregivers, and will provide emotional and practical support throughout the process.
While the biggest advantage of GCM services is likely the peace of mind in knowing that a loved one is being well cared for and has access to all of the resources and benefits available to them, there are also many cost savings related to hiring a professional GCM as well. There can be savings directly related to the cost in care, as a GCM can help navigate through Medicare, Medicaid or other insurance coverage. In addition a GCM will be aware of how to access other state and federal benefits as well as local community programs. In the case of long distance caregiving, a GCM can save a family travel expenses by being on hand for medical appointments and supervising care. Geriatric Care Management services can also help avoid lost wages, as a working caregiver may not have to take as much time off work for their caregiving responsibilities, and can help a family save time and be more efficient in finding resources and support.
Geriatric Care Management services are available to you at no cost through your company benefit program, The Caring WorkplaceĀ®. Contact Heather Spindler, MSW, at 314-802-5106 or via email at [email protected] for more information about how our program can help.
For additional information please visit the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers website at www.aginglifecare.org.