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May is Aging Life Care Month!

It’s that time of year again when we celebrate the Aging Life Care® Profession and spotlight why our work is so impactful for older adults and their families. Here are the 5 most common reasons families reach out to a care manager:

Care Coordination: Our healthcare system has become increasingly complex and fragmented; care managers are expert navigators. Whether helping with care transitions from a hospital or rehab facility to home or helping families manage the complexities of chronic illness, care managers can help coordinate medical follow-up and ensure that all healthcare providers are working together to provide the best quality care. They can also advise on senior living options and care benefits, help manage medications, organize home services, and be available to troubleshoot any care issues that arise, bringing families peace of mind. 

Continuity of Care: Working with a care manager starts with a comprehensive, holistic assessment of your loved one’s care needs. Some families just require that one-time “ road map” for care guidance. Others are seeking a long-term relationship with a care manager to enhance continuity of care. This ongoing partnership allows for regular check-ins, monitoring of progress, and adjustments to a care plan as needed. It provides stability and consistency in care, ensuring that your loved one’s evolving needs are met effectively over time. 

Family Caregiver Support: If you have family members or friends involved in your care, a care management assessment can also provide valuable support. Care managers can offer guidance, education, and resources to family caregivers, helping them navigate the challenges of caregiving and preventing burnout. This support for caregivers ultimately contributes to your overall well-being by ensuring your support system remains strong and capable. 

Improved Communication: Care managers are powerful advocates and can liaise between you, your healthcare providers, and your caregivers. They facilitate effective communication, ensuring everyone involved in your care is on the same page. This reduces misunderstandings, enhances collaboration, and improves the overall quality of care you receive. 

Proactive Healthcare Management: Care managers focus not only on current needs but also on potential future needs. By identifying risk factors such as fall risks, medication errors, or cognitive impairment, care managers can proactively address these concerns and collaboratively develop a plan of care. This proactive approach can prevent complications, reduce hospitalizations, and improve overall health outcomes. 

For more information on how to best work with a care manager as part of your care support system, contact us at HealthSense or visit the Aging Life Care Association.