What Is a Geriatric Care Manager and How Can They Help?

Caring for aging loved ones can be challenging, especially when balancing medical care, home support, and family dynamics.

A geriatric care manager (GCM) is a trained professional who steps in to manage and coordinate elder care, helping to make sure your loved one’s needs are met with quality and consistency.

Need guidance on senior care? Find a Solace advocate.

What Services Does a Geriatric Care Manager Provide?

Geriatric care managers offer a broad range of services to support the needs of both seniors and families:

• Healthcare Advocacy: GCMs coordinate medical appointments, manage medication schedules, and communicate with doctors to make sure the senior in question receives the best possible care. In many cases, healthcare advocates (like those at Solace) can serve multiple needs at once, including but not limited to geriatric care management.
• Comprehensive Assessments: GCMs evaluate a senior’s physical, emotional, and cognitive needs, often identifying care gaps family members might miss.
• Custom Care Plans: Based on assessments, GCMs develop care plans tailored to the senior’s needs and oversee them as conditions change.
• Family Support and Mediation: GCMs guide families through eldercare decisions and help resolve any conflicts, fostering harmony and understanding.

These services cover the finer details of elder care, allowing GCMs to provide holistic and comprehensive support that benefits both seniors and their families.

When Is the Right Time to Hire a Geriatric Care Manager?

Certain situations make hiring a GCM especially valuable. Here are some indicators it might be time to seek their help:

• Complex Medical Needs: If a senior has multiple chronic conditions.
• Numerous Healthcare Appointments: When managing multiple appointments and treatments becomes overwhelming.
• Living Far from a Loved One: For families who live far away and want to stay informed about their loved one’s well-being.

Not sure if a GCM is right for you? Speak with an advocate to learn more.

What Should You Look for When Choosing a Geriatric Care Manager?

Selecting the right GCM means finding someone who aligns with your family’s needs, values, and communication style. Here’s how to start:

• Where to Look: Start with eldercare agencies, hospitals, the Aging Life Care Association, or a health advocate, any of which can recommend certified GCMs.
• Questions to Ask: Ask about their background, experience, fees, and approach to family communication. A good GCM will prioritize family involvement and keep you informed every step of the way.

Taking time to research and interview potential GCMs can help you find someone who fits well with your family’s care philosophy.

Are GCMs Different From Advocates?

You can think of GCMs as a specific expertise within patient advocacy. Advocates can help with any healthcare problem. And GCMs, in specific, help with those related to elder care.

Advocates (like those at Solace) can also help you find a perfect GCM if that makes more sense for your care plan.

If you'd like an elder care advocate / GCM, use Solace to get someone right for you.

FAQ: Common Questions About Geriatric Care Managers

What exactly does a geriatric care manager do?

GCMs assess, coordinate, and oversee the care needs of seniors, managing everything from medical appointments to personalized care plans and family communication.

When should you consider hiring a geriatric care manager?

If your loved one has complex medical needs, frequent healthcare appointments, family disagreements over care, or if you live far away, a GCM can provide essential support.

How much does it cost to work with a GCM?

Costs vary by provider, often depending on the range and complexity of services. GCMs typically charge hourly or offer package rates.

How can I find a reputable GCM?

Local eldercare agencies, hospitals, organizations like the Aging Life Care Association, and healthcare advocates are all great resources for finding certified GCMs.

Do GCMs work directly with families?

Yes, GCMs collaborate closely with families, involving them in care decisions, providing updates, and offering guidance to reduce the stress of eldercare.

The Bottom Line

Elder care can be complex, but a skilled geriatric care manager provides valuable support to navigate these challenges effectively.

If you feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities of senior care, a GCM offers expertise and compassion, helping your loved one maintain dignity and quality of life while easing the caregiving load on your family.