Showing posts with label Geriatric Care Managemt. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Geriatric Care Managemt. Show all posts
November 22, 2013
2013 Award
One of our Certified Geriatric Care Managers, Crystal Carrier, has been awarded the 2013 Home Instead Senior Care Synergy Award for outstanding client care coordination and support. This annual award is given to community professionals that work to improve the quality of life for their clients whom they share with Home Instead. Crystal was chosen unanimously by the Home Instead staff.
February 15, 2013
Geriatric Care Managers Can Help
As the GCM earns the trust of older clients and family members, they are well positioned to monitor signs of specific family members taking financial advantage of older people’s money.
Click here to read more
Click here to read more
November 21, 2012
Do your parents need a manager?
Geriatric care managers—who often come from backgrounds in nursing, psychology, or social work—coordinate many aspects of their older clients’ care, from hiring home health aides to navigating public benefits and helping in emergencies.
Click here to read the article in the Wall Street Journal about Geriatric Care Managers.
Click here to read the article in the Wall Street Journal about Geriatric Care Managers.
August 8, 2012
7 Top Reasons Why Boomers Need a Geriatric Care Manager!
by Diane Hischke, R.N., M.S.N., C.M.C.
Founder, President and Professional Geriatric Care Manager
The more we know and the more informed we are, the better choices and decisions we can make. The same principle applies to my work as a Professional Geriatric Care Manager or PGCM, as we call ourselves. And, speaking of awareness, May was National Geriatric Care Manager Month!
Professional Geriatric Care Managers plan and coordinate the care of the elderly and disabled to improve their quality of life and maintain their independence as long as possible. That's what we do at Serving Seniors.
We're trained and experienced in many fields, including nursing, social work, and psychology with specialized focus on all issues related to aging and care for the elderly. We assist older adults so they can get the best care possible, and become an experienced guide and valuable resource for families or elderly loved ones, including those suffering from Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's, or showing symptoms of dementia.
Many people aren't aware that there's an organization called the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers. This is important to know because Geriatric Care Managers who are members are committed to adhering to the NAPGCM Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Unfortunately, not every Geriatric Care Manager belongs to this organization, which can lead to unprofessional results and negative consequences for the people who employ their services in good faith.
I'm proud to say that Serving Seniors has a team of professionals all of whom are members of this association; and we're recognized as one of 33 Fellow Certified Geriatric Care Managers in the USA, as recognized by the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers.
Here are some proven ways to determine if you need a Professional Geriatric Care Manager. Take an honest assessment to see if you have the time, desire, and skills to manage the many challenges of geriatric care by yourself. Talking to family members and consulting with a professional are great ways to start. Are the problems that you or your loved ones are facing becoming more than you can comfortably manage? Are the demands and responsibilities so great that you're not able to provide the right care and attention to your loved one's problems? If so, it's time to get the right help for you and your loved one. Here are the benefits of using a Professional Geriatric Care Manager.
Article published in the August, 2012 edition of The American Senior Gazette.
Founder, President and Professional Geriatric Care Manager
Professional Geriatric Care Managers plan and coordinate the care of the elderly and disabled to improve their quality of life and maintain their independence as long as possible. That's what we do at Serving Seniors.
We're trained and experienced in many fields, including nursing, social work, and psychology with specialized focus on all issues related to aging and care for the elderly. We assist older adults so they can get the best care possible, and become an experienced guide and valuable resource for families or elderly loved ones, including those suffering from Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's, or showing symptoms of dementia.
Many people aren't aware that there's an organization called the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers. This is important to know because Geriatric Care Managers who are members are committed to adhering to the NAPGCM Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Unfortunately, not every Geriatric Care Manager belongs to this organization, which can lead to unprofessional results and negative consequences for the people who employ their services in good faith.
I'm proud to say that Serving Seniors has a team of professionals all of whom are members of this association; and we're recognized as one of 33 Fellow Certified Geriatric Care Managers in the USA, as recognized by the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers.
Here are some proven ways to determine if you need a Professional Geriatric Care Manager. Take an honest assessment to see if you have the time, desire, and skills to manage the many challenges of geriatric care by yourself. Talking to family members and consulting with a professional are great ways to start. Are the problems that you or your loved ones are facing becoming more than you can comfortably manage? Are the demands and responsibilities so great that you're not able to provide the right care and attention to your loved one's problems? If so, it's time to get the right help for you and your loved one. Here are the benefits of using a Professional Geriatric Care Manager.
- Evaluate needs and develop a personalized Plan of Care
- Help to establish and maintain an independent lifestyle
- Arrange and oversee Home Care Services
- Assist with the transition to assisted living and nursing home care
- Manage care and coordinate with health care providers
- Educate, advise and support the caregiver
- Serve as a local resource for long-distance caregivers
Article published in the August, 2012 edition of The American Senior Gazette.
May 9, 2012
May is National Geriatric Care Manager Month
The more we know and the more informed we are, the make better choices and decisions we can make. The same principal applies to my work as a Professional Geriatric Care Manager or PGCM as we call ourselves. And speaking of awareness, May is National Geriatric Care Manager Month!
Professional Geriatric Care Managers plan and coordinate the care of the elderly and disabled to improve their quality of life and maintain their independence as long as possible. That’s what we do at Serving Seniors. We’re trained and experienced in many fields including nursing, social work, and psychology with specialized focus on all issues related to aging and care for the elderly. We assist older adults so they can get the best care possible and become an experienced guide and valuable resource for families or elderly loved ones, including those suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s, or showing symptoms of dementia.
Many people aren’t aware that there’s an organization called the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers. This is important to know because Geriatric Care Managers who are members, are committed to adhering to the NAPGCM Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Unfortunately, not every Geriatric Care Manager belongs to this organization which can lead to unprofessional results and negative consequences for the people who employ their services in good faith. I’m proud to say that Serving Seniors has a team of professionals all of whom are members of this association, and we’re recognized as one of 33 Fellow Certified Geriatric Care Managers in the USA as recognized by the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers.
Here are some proven ways to determine if you need a Professional Geriatric Care Manager. Take an honest assessment to see if you have the time, desire, and skills to manage the many challenges of geriatric care by yourself. Talking to family members and consulting with a professional are great ways to start. Are the problems that you or your loved ones are facing becoming more than you can comfortably manage? Are the demands and responsibilities so great that you’re not able to provide the right care and attention to your loved one’s problems? If so, it’s time to get the right help for you and your loved one. Here are the benefits of using a Professional Geriatric Care Manager.
● Evaluate needs and develop a personalized Plan of Care
● Help to establish and maintain an independent lifestyle
● Arrange and oversee Home Care Services
● Assist with the transition to assisted living and nursing home care
● Manage care and coordinate with health care providers
● Educate, advise and support the caregiver
● Serve as a local resource for long-distance caregivers
Serving Seniors Professional Geriatric Care Managers are committed to ensuring your loved one receives the absolutely best care, compassion, and quality of life they deserve. We provide welcome peace of mind to seniors, their families, and other representatives such as attorneys and guardians. Every decision matters in the care for your elderly loved ones and poor decisions affect everyone. We invite you to explore our services and take advantage of our free senior care resources on our website.
Call us at 877.375.SENIORS (877.375.7364), or contact us by e-mail. You’ll be glad you did.
Thanks,
Diane
Professional Geriatric Care Managers plan and coordinate the care of the elderly and disabled to improve their quality of life and maintain their independence as long as possible. That’s what we do at Serving Seniors. We’re trained and experienced in many fields including nursing, social work, and psychology with specialized focus on all issues related to aging and care for the elderly. We assist older adults so they can get the best care possible and become an experienced guide and valuable resource for families or elderly loved ones, including those suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s, or showing symptoms of dementia.
Many people aren’t aware that there’s an organization called the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers. This is important to know because Geriatric Care Managers who are members, are committed to adhering to the NAPGCM Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Unfortunately, not every Geriatric Care Manager belongs to this organization which can lead to unprofessional results and negative consequences for the people who employ their services in good faith. I’m proud to say that Serving Seniors has a team of professionals all of whom are members of this association, and we’re recognized as one of 33 Fellow Certified Geriatric Care Managers in the USA as recognized by the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers.
Here are some proven ways to determine if you need a Professional Geriatric Care Manager. Take an honest assessment to see if you have the time, desire, and skills to manage the many challenges of geriatric care by yourself. Talking to family members and consulting with a professional are great ways to start. Are the problems that you or your loved ones are facing becoming more than you can comfortably manage? Are the demands and responsibilities so great that you’re not able to provide the right care and attention to your loved one’s problems? If so, it’s time to get the right help for you and your loved one. Here are the benefits of using a Professional Geriatric Care Manager.
● Evaluate needs and develop a personalized Plan of Care
● Help to establish and maintain an independent lifestyle
● Arrange and oversee Home Care Services
● Assist with the transition to assisted living and nursing home care
● Manage care and coordinate with health care providers
● Educate, advise and support the caregiver
● Serve as a local resource for long-distance caregivers
Serving Seniors Professional Geriatric Care Managers are committed to ensuring your loved one receives the absolutely best care, compassion, and quality of life they deserve. We provide welcome peace of mind to seniors, their families, and other representatives such as attorneys and guardians. Every decision matters in the care for your elderly loved ones and poor decisions affect everyone. We invite you to explore our services and take advantage of our free senior care resources on our website.
Call us at 877.375.SENIORS (877.375.7364), or contact us by e-mail. You’ll be glad you did.
Thanks,
Diane
March 16, 2012
A great way to reduce elderly care costs. Do the math.
Health care has been a hot topic in the media for a while. Making healthcare affordable is on everyone’s radar and new studies give new insights to making health care affordable for the elderly. And research shows that Professional Geriatric Care Managers help keep costs down when treating the elderly, so this is great news.
In an article for the New England Journal of medicine, it stated that one in five seniors are rehospitalized within 30 days of being discharged. What causes big concerns are that only half of the elderly patients discharged receive self-care instructions or see a doctor after they’ve been discharged. This suggests that many hospitalizations could be prevented with proper care and instructions.
This isn’t new information for me, and fortunately, it’s finally being looked at due to concerns about the growing costs of health care under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. It’s now recognized that elderly patients who receive care coordinated in the home by specially trained geriatric care managers, substantially reduce hospitalizations and emergency room admissions by up to 90%.
So very true and here’s why; Professional Geriatric Care Managers become the physician extender in the home setting, while ensuring maximum use of primary care. This can limit and forestall preventable use of emergency room visits and hospitalizations with our elderly loved ones. It’s proven that reducing hospital and emergency room usage leads to improved patient satisfaction, improved quality of life, and reduction of costs for both the healthcare system and the elderly individual. That’s great news for all.
As a Professional Geriatric Care manager, it’s important to fully understand the key components to better care for the elderly. Here are some that we live by;
1. Partnering with the support system of our clients, including family, physicians, hospitals, social services, legal and financial advisors, and other service personnel.
2. Engagement and communication with the entire team while respecting the expertise and leadership of each area of care.
3. A commitment to a consumer-centered perspective and services. This includes lifestyle preferences, faith traditions, available financial resources, and dignity of care.
4. Improving the health comprehension of the patient and his/her support system is important for successful coping so everyone fully understands all that’s going on and knows when to call the Professional Geriatric Care Manager for any concerns that might arise.
5. Ability to Continually adjust the plan of care and surrounding environmental factors based on the daily needs of the elderly patient. Approximately 50% of our time is spent with clients in health education and counseling to cope with health care needs.
There are many other services available in the home including tele-health care monitoring and on-call care management support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our ultimate goal is improved health outcomes, reduced emergency room visits, and decrease in rehospitalizations. Our detailed notes on any interventions assure that the entire team is informed and can become part of the physician’s chart in the primary care setting.
We’re here to help you and your elderly loved ones get the help you need which ultimately is the best for them and you. Serving Seniors offers you peace of mind. We have a team of professionals trained in all areas of elder care and we’re recognized as one of 32 Fellow Certified Geriatric Care Managers in the USA as recognized by the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers. That truly is peace of mind.
Call us for a consultation so we can help you and your loved ones.
Thanks,
Diane
In an article for the New England Journal of medicine, it stated that one in five seniors are rehospitalized within 30 days of being discharged. What causes big concerns are that only half of the elderly patients discharged receive self-care instructions or see a doctor after they’ve been discharged. This suggests that many hospitalizations could be prevented with proper care and instructions.
This isn’t new information for me, and fortunately, it’s finally being looked at due to concerns about the growing costs of health care under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. It’s now recognized that elderly patients who receive care coordinated in the home by specially trained geriatric care managers, substantially reduce hospitalizations and emergency room admissions by up to 90%.
So very true and here’s why; Professional Geriatric Care Managers become the physician extender in the home setting, while ensuring maximum use of primary care. This can limit and forestall preventable use of emergency room visits and hospitalizations with our elderly loved ones. It’s proven that reducing hospital and emergency room usage leads to improved patient satisfaction, improved quality of life, and reduction of costs for both the healthcare system and the elderly individual. That’s great news for all.
As a Professional Geriatric Care manager, it’s important to fully understand the key components to better care for the elderly. Here are some that we live by;
1. Partnering with the support system of our clients, including family, physicians, hospitals, social services, legal and financial advisors, and other service personnel.
2. Engagement and communication with the entire team while respecting the expertise and leadership of each area of care.
3. A commitment to a consumer-centered perspective and services. This includes lifestyle preferences, faith traditions, available financial resources, and dignity of care.
4. Improving the health comprehension of the patient and his/her support system is important for successful coping so everyone fully understands all that’s going on and knows when to call the Professional Geriatric Care Manager for any concerns that might arise.
5. Ability to Continually adjust the plan of care and surrounding environmental factors based on the daily needs of the elderly patient. Approximately 50% of our time is spent with clients in health education and counseling to cope with health care needs.
There are many other services available in the home including tele-health care monitoring and on-call care management support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our ultimate goal is improved health outcomes, reduced emergency room visits, and decrease in rehospitalizations. Our detailed notes on any interventions assure that the entire team is informed and can become part of the physician’s chart in the primary care setting.
We’re here to help you and your elderly loved ones get the help you need which ultimately is the best for them and you. Serving Seniors offers you peace of mind. We have a team of professionals trained in all areas of elder care and we’re recognized as one of 32 Fellow Certified Geriatric Care Managers in the USA as recognized by the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers. That truly is peace of mind.
Call us for a consultation so we can help you and your loved ones.
Thanks,
Diane
February 15, 2012
What is Professional Geriatric Care Management?
Professional Geriatric Care Management is the process of planning and coordinating the care of the elderly and disabled to improve their quality of life and maintain their independence as long as possible.
Click here to read the entire article click here.
Click here to read the entire article click here.
What is a Geriatric Care Manager?
A Geriatric Care Manager is a health and human services specialist who helps families who care for older relatives. The Geriatric Care Manager is trained and experienced in any of several fields related to care management, including,
Why Does My Aging Parent Need a Geriatric Care Manager?
When you are considering whether you need the services of a Geriatric Care Manager, you should evaluate whether you have the time, inclination, or skills to manage the challenges of geriatric care by yourself. Read here for more.
What are the Benefits of Using a Geriatric Care Manager?
Professional Geriatric Care Management services are offered in a variety of settings. Geriatric Care Managers can serve the needs of their clients by providing: Read more here.
How Do I Find a Geriatric Care Manager?
The National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (NAPGCM) is an organization of practitioners whose goal is the advancement of expert assistance to the elderly and their families. I’m proud to say that I’ve been elected to the National Board of the NAPGCM and Serving Seniors can help you in all areas of qualified elderly care. Click here to find a Care Manager in your area. You can also read the entire article here.
July 13, 2011
When It Pays to Hire a Pro
(CBS News) You always want to save money where you can but there are certain tasks when hiring a pro is to your advantage
Click on the link below to see the full article by the CBS news staff
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/04/06/earlyshow/main20051284.shtml
Click on the link below to see the full article by the CBS news staff
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/04/06/earlyshow/main20051284.shtml
December 8, 2010
How to decide if your family needs a geriatric-care manager
The holidays should be a joyful time of homecoming for families, but sometimes those visits also reveal that elderly parents are more frail or more forgetful than before.
Click here to read the entire article:
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/geriatric-care-managers-ease-family-transitions-2009-12-10?pagenumber=1
Click here to read the entire article:
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/geriatric-care-managers-ease-family-transitions-2009-12-10?pagenumber=1
November 5, 2009
What questions should a person ask when hiring a Professional Geriatric Care Manager?
*What are your professional credentials?
A care manager should have at least a Bachelor’s degree in a health-related area and/or be a licensed nurse. Certification as a case manager is preferred, as well.
*Are you a member of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (NAPGCM)? If not, why not?
Members of the NAPGCM must have set education, credentials, certification, and experience. This should be your starting point for selecting a Professional Geriatric Care Manager (PGCM). There are individuals without appropriate knowledge, skill, and experience calling themselves care managers or "coaches" . The State of Michigan does not require licensure or certification so it is especially important to choose well.
*How many years have you been practicing professional geriatric care management?
One cannot be a member of the NAPGCM unless he/she has at least two years of supervised experience in the field of gerontology. Needs of older adults and their families are very complex and professional experience is important. Typically, the more experience in direct geriatric care management the better.
*Are there other care managers to serve as back-up when the assigned care manager is away or unavailable? If so, how many hours does this person work with you weekly or monthly in order to be knowledgeable regarding your clients?
Many care managers practice solo. Older adults need consistent support at unexpected times. If you want and/or need 24/7 assistance, it is important the care management company has more than one care manager or that the "solo" care manager has made arrangements for coverage by a well-informed and experienced colleague when he/she is not available.
*Are you available after hours and on weekends?
Older adults need consistent support and at unexpected times. High quality PGCMs, or their knowledgeable and experienced counterparts, are available to their clients and their families 24/7, 7 days a week.
*What are your fees?
Fees for services should be provided in a written agreement before service begins and be as specific as possible, so there is clarity for all involved.
*Are you licensed in your profession?
The PGCM should be licensed, if required, in his/her area of expertise.
*How do you involve the family in your care of the older adult?
While the primary client is the older adult, all others affected by his/her care needs should considered as part of the client system. Most older adults will give the PGCM permission to consult with their families, so it is important the PGCM value this relationship and be willing and able to address any problems or conflicts which are present.
*Are you affiliated with any other elder care service or company?
The PGCM should provide full disclosure regarding business, professional, or personal relationships he/she has with each recommended business, agency, or institution.
*What do you consider your area(s) of specialty or interest?
PGCMs may choose to specialize in certain client populations or services. Do any of these interests or specialties apply to your loved one?
A care manager should have at least a Bachelor’s degree in a health-related area and/or be a licensed nurse. Certification as a case manager is preferred, as well.
*Are you a member of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (NAPGCM)? If not, why not?
Members of the NAPGCM must have set education, credentials, certification, and experience. This should be your starting point for selecting a Professional Geriatric Care Manager (PGCM). There are individuals without appropriate knowledge, skill, and experience calling themselves care managers or "coaches" . The State of Michigan does not require licensure or certification so it is especially important to choose well.
*How many years have you been practicing professional geriatric care management?
One cannot be a member of the NAPGCM unless he/she has at least two years of supervised experience in the field of gerontology. Needs of older adults and their families are very complex and professional experience is important. Typically, the more experience in direct geriatric care management the better.
*Are there other care managers to serve as back-up when the assigned care manager is away or unavailable? If so, how many hours does this person work with you weekly or monthly in order to be knowledgeable regarding your clients?
Many care managers practice solo. Older adults need consistent support at unexpected times. If you want and/or need 24/7 assistance, it is important the care management company has more than one care manager or that the "solo" care manager has made arrangements for coverage by a well-informed and experienced colleague when he/she is not available.
*Are you available after hours and on weekends?
Older adults need consistent support and at unexpected times. High quality PGCMs, or their knowledgeable and experienced counterparts, are available to their clients and their families 24/7, 7 days a week.
*What are your fees?
Fees for services should be provided in a written agreement before service begins and be as specific as possible, so there is clarity for all involved.
*Are you licensed in your profession?
The PGCM should be licensed, if required, in his/her area of expertise.
*How do you involve the family in your care of the older adult?
While the primary client is the older adult, all others affected by his/her care needs should considered as part of the client system. Most older adults will give the PGCM permission to consult with their families, so it is important the PGCM value this relationship and be willing and able to address any problems or conflicts which are present.
*Are you affiliated with any other elder care service or company?
The PGCM should provide full disclosure regarding business, professional, or personal relationships he/she has with each recommended business, agency, or institution.
*What do you consider your area(s) of specialty or interest?
PGCMs may choose to specialize in certain client populations or services. Do any of these interests or specialties apply to your loved one?
November 2, 2009
What are the top 10 signs of quality services of
Professional Geriatric Care Management?
*Accepts the older adult as the primary client but considers all others affected by his her/her care needs as part of the client system.
The PGCM’s goal is to arrive at a solution that allows maximum decision-making autonomy for the person receiving care and for the other persons involved with or affected by these care needs.
*Fosters self-determination on the part of the older adult to live in accordance with her/her personal values and goals whenever possible.
The PGCM must attempt to involve the older person, to the greatest extent possible, in decisions that impact his/her life regardless of the determination of competence. If the PGCM should see that the older person is not competent in decision-making, then the PGCM should see that all decisions are made by the person(s) with the legal authority to do so.
*Respects the older person’s right to privacy, and when applicable, that of the client system.
The PCGM should consider all information in the client’s files confidential. The PGCM has good reason to waive confidentiality if he/she believes circumstances are life threatening or the law requires the reporting of suspected abuse or neglect.
*Demonstrates a genuine caring and non-judgmental approach toward the older person and the entire client system.
It is through the therapeutic relationship that help and/or emotional support will be received by the older adult and or the client system.
*Acts in a manner that ensures his/her own integrity as well as the integrity of the client system.
The PCGM would make a report to the appropriate authority if there is a circumstance where the integrity and safety of the older person is at risk, e.g. abuse, neglect, or self-neglect. The PGCM can appropriately refuse to accept a new case or continue in a case in which he/she believes that remaining in the situation would require compromising his/her own values, beliefs, or standards.
*Avoids exploitation of the relationship with the older person and/or the client system for personal gain.
The PGCM should avoid an inappropriate personal relationship with the older person and/or the client system that may impair their impartial judgment or lead to exploitation. The best interests of the client are always the focus of the PGCM.
*Strives to provide quality care using a flexible care plan developed in conjunction with the older person and/or client system.
A plan of care with recommendations, goals, and appropriate interventions must be flexible enough to deal with the older person’s changing status. The overall goal is to strive to assist the older person to attain the highest level of health and quality of life that is possible within his/her particular set of circumstances.
*States all fees for service in written form and discusses with the person accepting responsibility for payment prior to the initiation of services.
Fees should be charged for services rendered and presented in a clearly itemized statement. If unable to pay for care management services, the older person and/or client system should be referred to publicly supported agencies that can provide the necessary services. The PGCM does not support fee splitting or receiving referral fees from anyone providing services to the older client.
*If accepting a fiduciary responsibility the PGCM acts only within his/her knowledge and capabilities and avoids any activities that might suggest a conflict of interest.
Strict guidelines should be followed if the PGCM if in the role of "pay agent". Records of all transactions should be kept current in a format recognized by generally accepted accounting practices and should be open to inspection by appropriate parties.
*Participates in continuing education programs to enhance professional growth and development.
All PGCMs should remain current in best practices and domains pertinent to the discipline of professional geriatric care management.
*Defines his/her role clearly to other professionals.
The PGCM should act only in the roles for which he/she has appropriate skills, knowledge, and training, He/she should recommend consultations with specialists as needed.
Parts excerpted from "Standards of Practice", NAPGCM 2009 Directory of Members
Parts excerpted from "Standards of Practice", NAPGCM 2009 Directory of Members
September 14, 2009
Program Affiliations and Publications
Program Affiliations and Publications
of Serving Seniors, Inc.
Program Affiliations
Serving Seniors, Inc. is a member of "The Wraparound Program" and it's "Community Collaborative Team". The Wraparound Program consists of geriatric evaluation centers, home care agencies, social workers, and other dementia care consultants.
The "Community Collaborative Team" assists with issues surrounding dementia and offers support to caregivers of those with dementia. The ultimate goal of this program is to help those with dementia remain in their homes while also providing support and assistance to the caregiver. This program offers the following: 24/7 hotline service, support groups, care consultations, educational workshops, and respite care.
See these Recent Publications by Diane Hischke, President/Serving Seniors, Inc.
"Successful Communication", The American Senior Gazette - Vol. 10, No. 1, 2010
"Choosing the right Geriatric Care Manager is a family affair", The American Senior Gazette - Vol 5, No.1, 2009
of Serving Seniors, Inc.
Program Affiliations
Serving Seniors, Inc. is a member of "The Wraparound Program" and it's "Community Collaborative Team". The Wraparound Program consists of geriatric evaluation centers, home care agencies, social workers, and other dementia care consultants.
The "Community Collaborative Team" assists with issues surrounding dementia and offers support to caregivers of those with dementia. The ultimate goal of this program is to help those with dementia remain in their homes while also providing support and assistance to the caregiver. This program offers the following: 24/7 hotline service, support groups, care consultations, educational workshops, and respite care.
See these Recent Publications by Diane Hischke, President/Serving Seniors, Inc.
"Successful Communication", The American Senior Gazette - Vol. 10, No. 1, 2010
"Choosing the right Geriatric Care Manager is a family affair", The American Senior Gazette - Vol 5, No.1, 2009
August 31, 2009
Cost Saving Examples After Hiring a Professional Geriatric Care Manager
A professional geriatric care manager (PGCM) can help families realize cost savings, but the biggest advantage is the emotional peace of mind knowing that a relative or loved one is being cared for with the most appropriate level of care as recommended by the PGCM.
Regarding the average savings from hiring a GCM, The National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (NAPGCM) does not generate projectable data across the country. Every case is unique. What we can tell you are areas that have resulted in savings when a professional geriatric care manager is in the picture. Here are some of those that we often see:
1. Saving in care costs – Recommending live-in care when appropriate in place of (more expensive) shift care. Recommending free or low-cost products and services that may be available in local communities. Understanding today’s medical system can save clients money while ensuring the appropriate level of care.
2. Making the most of insurance – Ensuring that secondary insurance had been given and billed for medical bills coming to a senior's home. Avoiding paying unnecessary bills. Realizing benefits from public programs including those from Veterans Administration (VA) benefits and from programs like Medicare and Medicaid. Helping clients enroll in the most appropriate Medicare Part D (pharmacy benefit) plans for their state (and there are many in each state from which to choose).
3. Avoiding expensive duplication – Ensuring that seniors aren't paying for duplicative insurance, aren't donating repetitively to a charity (when the senior forgets they just donated last week or last month), or aren't buying duplicative clothing or food when the senior forgets what they already have in the home.
4. Saving in travel expenses – Supervising care including medical appointments, operations of in home staff can postpone expensive travel to a relative.
5. Avoiding lost wages – Monitoring caregiving. Some adult children take leave from work after vacations have been exhausted, to check on Mom or Dad. A PGCM can be the person on site to monitor the caregiving level.
6. Saving in household expenses – Identifying cost saving programs. Utility companies or other providers offer discount programs for seniors. PGCMs are aware of these programs and can recommend and sign up these services for the loved one.
7. Making better financial decisions – Encouraging clients to speak with financial planners about whether annuities are really good investment choices, especially when clients in their 80's can't access their funds without large withdrawal penalties. Curtailing compulsive spending from shopping on line or on TV.
8. Discovering assets the loved one might not have realized existed in the home. For instance, when a house is cleaned and put in order, often hidden money and valuables are found.
9. Savings in time and efficiency – While information is available (and NAPGCM recommends that consumers educate themselves), a PGCM is experienced in the wide range of resources available and can do the job in half (or less than half) the time.
Other Scenarios
1. Correct coding/insurance – When an elder had a terrible accident, was in a coma, hospitalized and then transferred to a rehabilitation hospital, her elder husband was overwhelmed with her care. She was transferred to a skilled nursing facility (SNF) near only child. The PGCM was hired when the decision was made to transfer her for long term care near her husband. Upon admission to the SNF, the son had signed a private pay agreement for following her Medicare days. He was eventually presented with a bill for $15,000 and the promise of future bills. After the PGCM discovered they had counted her rehab hospital days as SNF days (even though they had, of course, received referral from hospital), she urged the son not to pay the bill, which was clearly in error. Though receiving a couple of pretty threatening calls from the SNF wondering why I was giving such advice, the PGCM was right and the family did not pay. Also, this was accomplished without an attorney.
2. Telling families of the benefits from the VA system. Saved one son $1,600 per month (he was paying out of this money before VA). Also, VA provides free hearing aids and other services to veterans.
3. Recommending most cost effective level of care. Spouse who had her husband in a nursing home plus 24-7 care. Moved him to a small residential family home owned by a nurse. Cut the costs to the family in half. Wife didn’t know he could be at a lower level of care.
4. Helping families chose the most cost effective care plan (caregivers, agencies, care management)
5. Helping families advocate for lost dentures and/or glasses in skilled nursing facilities. Ombudsman comes into to play and it is the facilities responsibility to replace them.
6. Helping families with supplies – like incontinent supplies – finding sources on-line at less the drug store costs with free delivery.
7. Advocating for more time in acute care or skilled care by pointing out new diagnosis that give clients more days of care.
8. Telling families about free items – like hearing enhanced phones or other communication devices for the telephone company.
9. Helping spouse understand that Medicaid will pay for skilled nursing – they don’t have to sell the farm. But, they do need to qualify. Advising working with an Elder Law attorney to help.
10. Telling families about free services that are location specific. We have a hospital that has a volunteer helping/companion service and another small city that provides free shoppers for seniors.
11. Understanding that “Meals on Wheels” can often be free or donation only.
12. Getting clients “transportation” systems that are either a van with low costs or taxi scripts.
13. Signing clients up for low cost rates at the gas & electric company.
The rates are typically $300 - $800 for an initial assessment and $80 - $200 per hour depending on the region.
To find a PGCM in your area, visit www.caremanager.org for a searchable database by zip code or state.
Regarding the average savings from hiring a GCM, The National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (NAPGCM) does not generate projectable data across the country. Every case is unique. What we can tell you are areas that have resulted in savings when a professional geriatric care manager is in the picture. Here are some of those that we often see:
1. Saving in care costs – Recommending live-in care when appropriate in place of (more expensive) shift care. Recommending free or low-cost products and services that may be available in local communities. Understanding today’s medical system can save clients money while ensuring the appropriate level of care.
2. Making the most of insurance – Ensuring that secondary insurance had been given and billed for medical bills coming to a senior's home. Avoiding paying unnecessary bills. Realizing benefits from public programs including those from Veterans Administration (VA) benefits and from programs like Medicare and Medicaid. Helping clients enroll in the most appropriate Medicare Part D (pharmacy benefit) plans for their state (and there are many in each state from which to choose).
3. Avoiding expensive duplication – Ensuring that seniors aren't paying for duplicative insurance, aren't donating repetitively to a charity (when the senior forgets they just donated last week or last month), or aren't buying duplicative clothing or food when the senior forgets what they already have in the home.
4. Saving in travel expenses – Supervising care including medical appointments, operations of in home staff can postpone expensive travel to a relative.
5. Avoiding lost wages – Monitoring caregiving. Some adult children take leave from work after vacations have been exhausted, to check on Mom or Dad. A PGCM can be the person on site to monitor the caregiving level.
6. Saving in household expenses – Identifying cost saving programs. Utility companies or other providers offer discount programs for seniors. PGCMs are aware of these programs and can recommend and sign up these services for the loved one.
7. Making better financial decisions – Encouraging clients to speak with financial planners about whether annuities are really good investment choices, especially when clients in their 80's can't access their funds without large withdrawal penalties. Curtailing compulsive spending from shopping on line or on TV.
8. Discovering assets the loved one might not have realized existed in the home. For instance, when a house is cleaned and put in order, often hidden money and valuables are found.
9. Savings in time and efficiency – While information is available (and NAPGCM recommends that consumers educate themselves), a PGCM is experienced in the wide range of resources available and can do the job in half (or less than half) the time.
Other Scenarios
1. Correct coding/insurance – When an elder had a terrible accident, was in a coma, hospitalized and then transferred to a rehabilitation hospital, her elder husband was overwhelmed with her care. She was transferred to a skilled nursing facility (SNF) near only child. The PGCM was hired when the decision was made to transfer her for long term care near her husband. Upon admission to the SNF, the son had signed a private pay agreement for following her Medicare days. He was eventually presented with a bill for $15,000 and the promise of future bills. After the PGCM discovered they had counted her rehab hospital days as SNF days (even though they had, of course, received referral from hospital), she urged the son not to pay the bill, which was clearly in error. Though receiving a couple of pretty threatening calls from the SNF wondering why I was giving such advice, the PGCM was right and the family did not pay. Also, this was accomplished without an attorney.
2. Telling families of the benefits from the VA system. Saved one son $1,600 per month (he was paying out of this money before VA). Also, VA provides free hearing aids and other services to veterans.
3. Recommending most cost effective level of care. Spouse who had her husband in a nursing home plus 24-7 care. Moved him to a small residential family home owned by a nurse. Cut the costs to the family in half. Wife didn’t know he could be at a lower level of care.
4. Helping families chose the most cost effective care plan (caregivers, agencies, care management)
5. Helping families advocate for lost dentures and/or glasses in skilled nursing facilities. Ombudsman comes into to play and it is the facilities responsibility to replace them.
6. Helping families with supplies – like incontinent supplies – finding sources on-line at less the drug store costs with free delivery.
7. Advocating for more time in acute care or skilled care by pointing out new diagnosis that give clients more days of care.
8. Telling families about free items – like hearing enhanced phones or other communication devices for the telephone company.
9. Helping spouse understand that Medicaid will pay for skilled nursing – they don’t have to sell the farm. But, they do need to qualify. Advising working with an Elder Law attorney to help.
10. Telling families about free services that are location specific. We have a hospital that has a volunteer helping/companion service and another small city that provides free shoppers for seniors.
11. Understanding that “Meals on Wheels” can often be free or donation only.
12. Getting clients “transportation” systems that are either a van with low costs or taxi scripts.
13. Signing clients up for low cost rates at the gas & electric company.
The rates are typically $300 - $800 for an initial assessment and $80 - $200 per hour depending on the region.
To find a PGCM in your area, visit www.caremanager.org for a searchable database by zip code or state.
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