Most people do not even know what a Geriatric Care Consultant does let alone whether they need one. Geriatric Care Consultants can be very important under many different circumstances.
1. For many children who do not live in the same city or have extremely demanding schedules with little extra time, they may need an experienced Geriatric Consultant to help navigate their parents' needs. Some of those needs may be medical in nature such as: escorting them and being there for important doctor consultations; hiring caregivers or other supportive staff; supervising caregivers and directing them; determining medical needs and finding the appropriate doctors, physical therapists, occupational therapists, dentists etc. A Geriatric Consultant can provide accurate reports of vital information so that the children can make informed decisions with regards to their parents. Geriatric consultants can also give advice with regards to financial matters. They can direct children to lawyers and accountants who have the right expertise for each circumstance. If a nursing home or retirement home is necessary, a Geriatric Consultant can direct you to the right ones. If staying at home is the preferred option, a Geriatric Consultant can help with retrofitting the home to meet the physical challenges that have to be faced.
2. There are instances when an individual is asked or needs to be a Power of Attorney (POA) or guardian for a senior or disabled family or non family member. A Geriatric Consultant can direct them to the right professionals who can make sure that every aspect is executed properly.
3. Conflict resolution. Many times there are conflicts among family members as to the direction of care for their loved one. Other times there is resistance on the part of the person who needs care to accept care. An experienced Geriatric Care Consultant can help negotiate, arbitrate, and bring resolution and clarity to these dilemmas.
4. Advocacy. There are times when a loved one is in a facility such as a hospital or nursing home and needs someone to advocate for them and make sure that their need are being addressed especially if there are no family members or none in the same city. Dealing with insurance companies or other financial obligations may be difficult especially when a strong position has to be taken. A Geriatric Care Consultant can advocate effectively for the senior hopefully to a just conclusion.
5. General support and fellowship. Sometimes it is just comforting to have someone who is experienced and knowledgeable to talk to when making care decisions when it comes to a loved one.
Many care decisions are precipitated by a crisis or sudden change in the health of a loved one. That can be stressful enough. It is always a good thing to have a level headed, experienced professional working alongside you to advise, assist, co-ordinate and reassure you at those times.
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