There are many reasons one might consider the services of a professional care manager.  Nurse care managers like myself are often called in when medical concerns become an issue.  Other times a fall might prompt our assistance.  I have listed below the top ten reasons for referral.  Feel free to add your own.

1. You are concerned about your loved one’s safety in the home.
2. Medication and treatment plans are confusing.
3. You are overwhelmed by the demands of caregiving.
4. Your loved one has an unexplained weight loss that is not easily controlled.
5. There has been a recent emergency room visit.
6. Frequent falling.
7. Multiple hospitalizations or medical treatment.
8. There is no one local to assist the family member or monitor their health.
9. Activities of daily living such as bathing, grooming, housekeeping and nutrition are not being met.
10. There is concern that your loved one is not receiving adequate care in the assisted living facility or nursing home.

My role is to perform assessments and coordinate services for your loved one.  Each client is thoroughly evaluated and a personal plan of care is developed, outlining their needs and prioritizing them.  As a nurse I also identify risk factors and implement strategies to prevent their occurrence.  The favorite part of my job is acting as a liaison for concerned family members living in other areas.  I am oftentimes the eyes and ears and help bring families and solutions together.

If your loved one needs assistance or if you need help in determining solutions, contact our office today to learn more about geriatric care management services.

Related articles by Zemanta

• Patient Money: When Elder Care Problems Escalate, You Can Hire an Expert (nytimes.com)
• Confused about health insurance options? (money.cnn.com)