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As our loved ones age, navigating the complex world of elder care can be challenging. One solution that offers comprehensive support is Geriatric Care Management (GCM).
But what is GCM and how can it benefit you and your loved ones? Let's dive in and explore some common questions around this topic.
Understanding Geriatric Care Management
GCM is a service designed to help you and your loved ones make informed decisions and manage stress when it comes to elder care. A geriatric care manager, who could be a social worker, nurse, gerontologist, counselor, or other professional, acts as a single point of contact for all your loved one's care needs.
The Benefits of Geriatric Care Management
GCM can be an invaluable resource for long-distance caregivers and anyone seeking guidance in caring for someone with dementia or other complex health conditions. It assists with all aspects of long-term care, whether at home, in an assisted living facility, or in a nursing home.
If your loved one's health or life situation changes, or if they require specialized services, GCM can be an excellent solution.
Services Offered by Geriatric Care Managers
Geriatric Care Managers coordinate care and services to meet the full range of your loved one's needs. Here are some ways they might help:
In-person Assessment: Care managers conduct thorough evaluations to understand your loved one's health and living situation, allowing them to customize their care plans and services.
Care Plan Creation: Based on the assessment results, care managers develop a care plan that includes recommendations and local community referrals. They will explain the plan in detail and help prioritize actions.
Service Arrangement: Care managers coordinate services tailored to the needs identified in the care plan. These services could include crisis intervention, counseling, consumer education, money management, housing decisions, and more.
Monitoring: Once the services are in place, regular monitoring and re-evaluations are conducted to make necessary adjustments and ensure the ongoing well-being of your loved one.
Paying for Geriatric Care Management
Generally, GCM services are billed privately on a fee-for-service basis. While most insurance policies, including Medicare and Medicaid, do not currently cover GCM services, some long-term care policies do provide coverage.
Choosing the Right Geriatric Care Management Agency
When speaking with a potential GCM agency or independent care manager, it's essential to ask the right questions to ensure they are a good fit for your loved one's needs.
These questions should include their knowledge and experience in caring for the elderly, dementia, business history, professional credentials, and availability, among others.
Remember, selecting a geriatric care manager is a significant decision. It's crucial to find a professional who understands your loved one's needs, communicates effectively, and can provide a clear plan towards helping you get the care and support your family needs.