ASSESSMENT

During the assessment, we will identify areas that may be challenging for both the client and the caregiver and provide resources to help fill those needs. Some of the areas we assess are:

• The Person in their Environment
• Disease Process
• Physical Functioning
• Availability of Support
• Home Safety
• Caregiver Burnout
• Mental Functioning
• Appropriate Level of Care
• Legal Issues
• Financial Aspects

We, then, provide a written care plan that can be used by the client, their family and other professionals to serve the client.

GERIATRIC CARE MANAGEMENT

After the development of the care plan, we can work on implementing that plan on behalf of the client, family or responsible party. Duties that may be assigned to us depending on the specific needs of the client and family are:

• Initiation of Community Services
• Screening of Hired Caregivers
• Attend Doctor's Appointment
• Assist with Transitions Between Hospital, Facility and Home
• Follow Through with Physician Care Plan Including Medications
• Monitor Provision of Services
• Emotional Support for Client and Caregivers
• Problem Solve As Needed
• Research Insurance Benefits

FAMILY CAREGIVER EDUCATION

Families provide the bulk of caregiving for older adults. Our role is to support family caregivers by being a resource for them. We are able to answer specific questions for family members involved in caregiving. Some of the topics include:

• Dementia Care
• Communication Strategies with Someone With Dementia
• How to Help When the Person Does Not Want Your Help
• Recognizing and Preventing Abuse
• What is Caregiver Burnout?
• Community Resources
• End of Life Care

PROFESSIONAL TRAINING

We provide training to people working with older adults in their professional roles. The emphasis for many of these classes is acknowledging the older adult as an individual. Understanding that detail enables the professional to build a good working relationship and work more effectively. Previous trainings have been provided for the following professions:

• Physicians' Offices
• Home Health Agencies
• Hospice Organizations
• Home Caregivers
• Networking Groups
• Social Workers
• Residential Care Coordinators
• Insurance Agents
• Employers