Aging life care managers offer support for families with elderly relatives

Aging life care managers, formerly known as geriatric care managers, provide services to help families navigate the needs of older adults, KFF Health News reported. These service providers coordinate long term care, organize moves to senior living facilities, navigate Medicare and Medicaid requirements, recommend physicians, and handle transport for medical visits. [1][3]

In one instance described by KFF Health News, Kristin Martinelli, an aging life care manager with Mir Care Management, managed early morning Medicaid recertification for a nursing home client in Austin, Texas. She then assisted an 85-year-old woman who has advanced dementia with her move into a secure memory care unit. [1]

Geriatric care management involves planning and coordinating health and social care services to enhance the quality of life and independence of older adults, according to Wikipedia. Managers use knowledge of psychology, human development, family dynamics, and public funding resources to advocate for their clients through long term care environments. [3]

These management professionals work directly with elderly individuals and their families to manage health referrals and private services. Families often rely on these arrangements to maintain structure and support for aging members facing physical or mental impairments. [3][4]