The Mindful Path — Care and Coordination | May 3, 2025

“The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others.” – Albert Schweitzer

May is the convergence of Older Americans Month, Mental Health Awareness Month and National Aging Life Care Month. Spring is the perfect time to consider the unique services offered by geriatric care managers. Care managers can often enhance mental wellbeing, peace of mind and long-term planning.

A senior care manager, also known as an aging life care professional or a geriatric care manager, is a professional specializing in assisting older adults with various aspects of aging, healthcare management and holistic wellbeing.  Their primary role is to help individuals and their loved ones navigate the complexities of aging, coordinate and oversee care services, and enhance the overall quality of life for older adults.

Advocacy

Geriatric care managers are often geriatric specialist, nurses or medical social workers. Advocacy is a top priority in service delivery. Patient rights are protected, and individual wishes are respected. Geriatric care managers can help navigate healthcare systems, communicate with healthcare providers and ensure that the older adult’s voice is heard and understood.

Care Planning

Care managers assist with developing personalized care plans that address specific needs and preferences of older adults. All aspects of an individual’s life are explored to enhance their vitality including personal goals, physical health, social opportunities, financial management, spiritual connection, and emotional wellbeing. Preventative care is a key component in planning.

Care Coordination

Coordinating and managing the complex issues of older adults is key in helping individuals maintain independence and dignity. Geriatric care managers act as a liaise with healthcare professionals, elder law professionals, home health agencies, family members, hospice teams and others to form a unified, multidisciplinary team to support individuals and their families. Care management tasks might include medication oversight, scheduling and attending medical appointments, and ensuring continuity of care for individual medical needs. Geriatric care managers provide guidance, support and education to families helping them navigate challenging situations. Services are managed through private pay care agencies. The cost for individualized services ranges from $90 - $175 an hour. A national directory of Geriatric Care Managers can be found at www.aginglifecare.org

As the spring season brings hope and renewal, it is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on what might bring more vitality and happiness to your life. Care management might be just what is needed! Be well.