How Can Geriatric Care Managers Help Families Navigate Dementia Care?

Dementia diagnoses can bring a wave of uncertainty and complex challenges for both seniors and their families. A geriatric care manager can provide invaluable support, acting as a guide and advocate to help you navigate the intricacies of dementia care.

Comprehensive Care Assessment

The first step a geriatric care manager takes is to conduct a thorough assessment of the individual with dementia. This isn’t just about medical needs. It’s a holistic evaluation that covers the physical, emotional, social, and environmental situation. The manager will evaluate:

• Cognitive function and the stage of dementia

• Daily living activities and level of independence

• Home safety and living arrangements

• Current medical care and medication organization

• Social support systems and family dynamics

This comprehensive view allows him or her to create a personalized care plan that addresses your loved one’s specific needs.

Developing a Personalized Care Plan

Following the assessment, the geriatric care manager develops a detailed customized care plan. This plan serves as a road map for managing your loved one’s care and is designed to adapt as his or her needs change over time. It typically outlines strategies and recommendations for:

• Medical monitoring and coordination with healthcare providers

• Medication organization schedules and reminders

• Daily routines and activities to enhance quality of life

• Necessary home modifications to ensure safety

• Suggestions for in-home care or residential placement options

Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Santa Ana 24-hour care experts are available around the clock to help seniors manage their health. Whether your loved one is living with dementia or recovering from a stroke, you can trust the professional caregivers from Rainbow Home Care to enhance his or her quality of life. 

Connecting Families with Resources

Navigating the healthcare system and finding reliable services can be overwhelming. Geriatric care managers have extensive knowledge of local resources and can connect families with the right support. This includes:

• In-home care agencies - Finding skilled caregivers for assistance with daily tasks

• Specialized medical professionals - Recommending neurologists, psychiatrists, or therapists with experience in dementia

• Legal and financial experts - Connecting families with elder law attorneys or financial planners

• Support groups - Locating groups for both you and your loved one

• Residential care facilities - Identifying and vetting assisted living facilities or memory care units

Many seniors prefer aging in place over moving to assisted living facilities. If your senior loved one needs assistance to remain safe and comfortable while living at home, reach out to Rainbow Home Care, a leading Santa Ana elder care agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks.

Ongoing Support and Advocacy

A geriatric care manager’s role doesn't end after the care plan is created. The care manager provides continuous support, monitoring your loved one’s condition and adjusting the plan as needed. The care manager also acts as a crucial advocate, ensuring your loved one receives high-quality, appropriate care. This can involve attending doctor’s appointments, communicating with medical staff, and mediating family discussions to ensure everyone is on the same page. By serving as a consistent point of contact, the care manager can reduce stress and enhance the overall care experience for the entire family.

For some families in Santa Ana, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Rainbow Home Care is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break. Schedule a free in-home consultation by giving us a call today.