As you grow older, you may notice that it becomes more difficult to perform certain tasks with ease. You may find it harder to balance your checkbook, drive to the grocery store, or even take a shower without assistance. These difficulties are due to the natural aging process and are nothing to worry about. However, for some seniors, these difficulties can result from a more serious underlying condition, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. If you notice concerning changes in your elderly loved one’s abilities, it may be time to seek expert employee eldercare assistance solutions.
Who is An Eldercare Specialist?
An eldercare specialist is a professional who provides expert assistance to seniors and their families in navigating the challenges of aging. Eldercare specialists are often social workers, nurses, or geriatricians who have specialized training in geriatrics, the study of aging. They can help assess your loved one’s needs and develop a plan of care that meets those needs.
Interview Questions to Ask a Geriatric Care Manager
Now that you know more about what an eldercare specialist is and how they can help, you may be wondering, what interview questions should I ask a geriatric care manager? Here is an expert list.
How long have you been working with seniors?
This question will help you get a sense the care manager’s experience level.
Do you have senior care manager certification?
Certification is a good indicator of the care manager’s level of expertise. So, if you or your loved one have special needs, it’s worth asking if the care manager is certified in your area of interest.
Are you available 24/7 to handle emergencies?
It’s important to know that your eldercare specialist will be available to help in an emergency. As a senior, you may feel more comfortable knowing that someone is always available to help.
How much do you charge, and Will you provide a written estimate of fees before beginning service?
Ask about the care manager’s fee structure and get a written estimate of fees before agreeing to services. Doing so ensures that there are no unforeseen costs down the road.
Are there any references you can provide?
It’s always a good idea to conduct background checks on any professional you consider hiring. This will allow you to speak with other people who have used their services and get their feedback.
By asking these expert questions, you’ll have confidence that you’re hiring the right eldercare specialist to meet your loved one’s needs. Let’s move forward and explore the role of an eldercare specialist in more detail.
What Does an Eldercare Specialist Do?
In helping seniors and their families, an eldercare specialist performs various tasks. These tasks may include:
Conducting an assessment of the senior’s needs: This assessment will help the eldercare specialist identify any areas of concern and develop a plan of care accordingly. For instance, the assessment may reveal that the senior needs help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
Provide family caregivers with information and referrals on local resources and services :The eldercare specialist can provide caregivers with information on services and resources available in the community to help meet the senior’s needs. For instance, the specialist may refer the caregiver to a local home care agency that can provide in-home assistance.
Assist the caregiver families and older individuals in understanding senior care services : Senior care can be complex, and the eldercare specialist can help to explain the various types of services available. An example is explaining the differences between home care and hospice care.
Maintain continuous monitoring and coordination of senior care services: The eldercare specialist will work to ensure that the services being provided to the seniors are meeting their needs. This may involve working with various service providers, such as home care agencies and physicians.
Providing guidance and assistance to the seniors and their families regarding loss, grief, decision-making, and other age-related concerns: Aging comes with many challenges, both for the seniors and their families. The eldercare specialist can provide guidance and support in dealing with these challenges. Whether dealing with age-related medical conditions or making decisions about long-term care, the specialist can be a valuable resource.
By having a care manager in your corner, you can be confident that your loved one receives the best possible care.
In conclusion, an eldercare specialist is a professional who helps seniors and their families with the challenges of aging. The specialist can provide guidance on available resources, coordinate care services, and help with decision-making. If you’re considering hiring an eldercare specialist, ask about their experience, certification, and fees. And always get references from other families who have used the care manager’s services.