So, what does a Professional Aging Life Care Manager actually do?

Sometimes I am asked about what my typical clients might need or struggle with. Here are some recent situations where families have called for my assistance:

• “My wife was recently diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia at age 67. I need to know what to expect and how to hire care when it is needed.”
• “My father has early stage Alzheimer’s disease and is struggling to take care of himself. He is very resistant to any kind of help in the home and insists there is nothing wrong with him. Meanwhile, he is losing weight, not taking his medications, and still drives, but it is probably no longer safe.”
• “My sister is 75 and has multiple health problems all at once…requiring 2 surgeries. Her husband died a few months ago and she lives alone. She has very little savings and owns her home. How will she pay for her aftercare? Can she remain in her home? What public assistance programs are there that she might qualify for to help pay for care?”
• “I have no children to take care of me, although I am fine right now at age 80. I know I will need some help in the future, but have no real support system. What can I do to ensure I will have the care I need and an advocate who will speak on my behalf?”

A care manager will find solutions to these problems while providing education, resources, and support to families and clients. If you are struggling with the growing challenges of caring for an aging family member, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Call an Aging Life Care Professional before the next crisis hits.

by Joan Garbow, MSW, LCSW, CCM
Advanced Member of The Aging Life Care Association