Whether you are looking for a geriatric care manager for yourself, or a loved one, having a vision of the outcome will help to hire the best person for the situation. Geriatrics is a growing industry across many disciplines, especially over the past 35 years. Physicians, nursing, social work, and attorneys are all areas that can and do specialize in geriatrics. As the Baby Boomer generation continues to age, there will undoubtedly be a greater demand for these professionals.
When Does Someone Become Geriatric?
Before we jump into the topic of Geriatric Care Management, let us define when a person becomes “geriatric” or a “senior adult.” There are some variations out there that are plus or minus about 5 years from this information, but this seems to be the closest to what the experts can agree on. The young-old which is aged 65-74, the middle-old at 75-84 years of age, and the old-old which is 85 and older are the three life-stage subgroups.
What Do Geriatric Care Managers Do?
As our population ages, the demand for a Geriatric Care Manager is on the rise. These professionals have the education, skills, and knowledge to maneuver through a variety of situations. Physical location and other responsibilities are the core reasons why the need for geriatric care managers is on the rise. As the overall population of the United States ages, the need to have professional help is important in ensuring the well-being of our seniors.
Care Management
Care management can be an alternative to guardianship. They can also be used in conjunction with other agencies and services to help support the senior. Geriatric care managers are also sought out to be an extra set of eyes and ears to help defend off those that seek to abuse, defraud, or take advantage of seniors. Care managers can also address topics such as: aging in place, guardianship, long term housing, polypharmacy, physical health, housing, mental health, nutrition, mobility, abuse, neglect, exploitation, and financial concerns.
How Do You Find a Geriatric Care Manager?
While a quick “Google” search could yield some results, other reputable sites like Aging Life Care Association, a national site, or a state site such as the Area Agency on Aging, can connect seniors to someone in the desired area.
Care Managers mostly charge an hourly rate for their services. This rate varies based on physical location, education, demand, and expertise. The average rate is $100-$300 per hour. Long term care insurance or other policies rarely cover the Care Managers. Private pay is the most common way that care managers are paid. Having a geriatric care manager for either yourself, or a loved one can bring comfort knowing a professional is looking after the senior to ensure all is well.
Hammerle Finley Offers Guardianship Services
Hammerle’s unique Guardian Services program is one of the only guardianship and care management programs within the state of Texas that is hosted by a sought-after law firm. There are numerous benefits to the client and their family through this unique relationship, such as highly qualified and trained staff, access to legal advice and direction, and an additional level of oversight and accountability.
If you are looking for geriatric care or guardianship assistance and have legal questions, schedule a consultation with the experienced attorneys and staff at Hammerle Finley Law Firm.
Courtney Carey is a Texas Certified Guardian and a Care Manager, with experience in Texas Medicaid waiver programs, intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health, and geriatrics. Contact Hammerle Finley Law Firm to schedule a consultation: www.hammerle.com. This column does not constitute legal advice.
