Choosing a geriatric care manager (GCM) for a loved one is a significant decision that impacts their well-being and quality of life. A GCM, also known as an aging life care professional, provides a comprehensive range of services, including care planning, coordination, and advocacy for older adults and their families. Here are the essential criteria to consider when selecting a geriatric care manager:
o Professional Credentials and Certification
Start by verifying the professional credentials of the GCM. Ideally, they should have relevant certifications from recognized organizations that ensure that have met stringent standards of education, experience, and ethics in elder care.
o Experience and Expertise
Quality GCM’s generally have backgrounds in healthcare and/or social work. Certification, alone, cannot convey the level or areas of expertise of a GCM. Experience is crucial in geriatric care management. Look for someone with a solid track record in managing the care of elderly individuals, especially those with specific conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease, or other chronic illnesses. The GCM should have extensive knowledge of the healthcare system, local resources, and senior care options.
PRO TIP: look for a team that includes a variety of useful backgrounds to cover all of your loved one’s needs. For example, our team at Senior Steps includes a certified Mediator, a licensed Nursing Home Administrator, Dementia experts, and Registered Nurses with experience working in long-term care, short term rehabs, clinical settings, and at home.
o Independence
Many Geriatric Care Management companies are built on a flawed, commission-based financial model that potential clients often mistake for connectedness. It’s important you make sure that everyone hired to help care for your elderly loved one puts them first. For this to be the case, your GCM must not have financial ties to other institutions, like exclusivity contracts with certain nursing homes, clinics, or at-home-care companies, which could put them in a position to prioritize their profits over the senior’s best interests.
o Personal Compatibility and Trust
Building a trusting relationship with the GCM is essential. During the initial consultation, assess whether the GCM’s personality and approach align with your family’s values and the senior’s preferences. The GCM should demonstrate empathy, patience, and a genuine commitment to enhancing the quality of life for your loved one. Cultural competence is increasingly important in geriatric care. The GCM should be sensitive to the cultural, religious, and personal values of the senior and their family. This understanding can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the care plan and the senior’s comfort and satisfaction.
o Availability and Accessibility
Consider what you are hiring a GCM for what how much coverage you need. While some GCM’s offer a one-size-fits-all solution, some teams have options to choose from, such as a one-time assessment and planning vs. on-call, long term availability, emergency coverage, and more. If a GCM is to be hired long-term, they should be able to respond promptly to emergencies and be available for regular check-ins and updates. Ensure they have a backup plan in place if they are unavailable due to personal or professional reasons.
o A Strong Network
A key role of a GCM is to advocate for the senior’s needs and preferences. They should be skilled in navigating the healthcare system, coordinating with various service providers, and ensuring that the senior receives appropriate and timely care. A great care management expert will have trusted referrals in the industry and know the best service providers. They will have expert knowledge of available resources and guidelines for qualifying for various benefits.
o Comprehensive Assessment Skills
A proficient GCM should conduct thorough assessments to understand the unique needs and preferences of your loved one. This includes evaluating physical health, cognitive abilities, emotional well-being, and social support systems. The assessment results should guide the development of a personalized care plan that addresses all aspects of the senior’s life.
o Strong Communication Skills
Effective communication is vital in geriatric care management. The GCM should be able to communicate clearly and compassionately with seniors, family members, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders. They should be responsive to your concerns and provide regular updates on your loved one’s condition and care plan.
o Ethical Standards and Professionalism
Ensure the GCM adheres to high ethical standards and professional conduct. They should respect the senior’s privacy, maintain confidentiality, and provide unbiased recommendations based on the senior’s best interests. It’s also important that the GCM operates transparently, with clear contracts and fees.
o Cost and Insurance Coverage
Geriatric care management services can be expensive, so it’s important to understand the cost structure and whether any services are covered by insurance. Discuss fees upfront and inquire about any additional costs that may arise. Some GCMs may offer sliding scale fees based on financial need.
o References and Reviews
Ask for references from previous clients and check online reviews to gauge the GCM’s reputation and the satisfaction of other families. Positive testimonials and a strong professional reputation are good indicators of a reliable and effective GCM.
o Continuous Education and Training
The field of geriatric care is constantly evolving, with new research, treatments, and technologies emerging regularly. Ensure the GCM stays updated with ongoing education and training to provide the best possible care for your loved one.
o Holistic Approach
A holistic approach to care is vital for the overall well-being of seniors. The GCM should address not only the medical needs but also the emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of the senior’s life. This comprehensive approach ensures a higher quality of life and more meaningful engagement for the elderly.
Selecting a geriatric care manager requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure the best possible care for your loved one. Remember, the right GCM can make a profound difference in the quality of life and well-being of your elderly loved one and by extension, that of their family members.
If you are looking for a Geriatric Care Management team, you are welcome to speak to one of our experts at no cost to see if we could be a good match. Fill out the short form at SeniorSteps.org/book-online to get started.
Comments