During Monday’s White House Conference on Aging, panelists discussed the challenge facing America — by 2030 some 70 billion baby boomers will be 65+ age. This puts an increasing strain on the long-term care industry and how to manage the care of this rapidly increasing population.
One panelist shared her frustrations of navigating unorganized 1-800 numbers and other resources for her aging father. This turned the discussion to coordinating the many facets and nuances of long-term care and the growing need for care management. [complete debrief of the #WHCOA.]
Those utilizing the services of Aging Life Care Professionals™ already know the value and benefits of the geriatric care management approach. But we still have a lot of work to do to educate the general public and prime referral sources on the services provided by Aging Life Care Professionals.
A recent article in the New York Times – both online and print – helped shine the light on the holistic, client-centered approach advocated by Aging Life Care™ managers. The article also noted the importance of finding a qualified, professional. As many rush into the elder-care industry hoping to profit from the increased demand, it is critical to find the professionals with the right skills, education, and experience.
Members of the Aging Life Care Association™ (ALCA) differ from Patient Advocates, Senior Advisors, Senior Navigators, and Elder Advocates. ALCA members meet stringent education, experience, and certification requirements of the organization, and all members are required to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
The Aging Life Care Professional assists clients in attaining their maximum functional potential. The individual’s independence is encouraged while safety and security concerns are also addressed. Aging Life Care Professionals are able to address a broad range of issues related to the well-being of their client. They also have extensive knowledge about the costs, quality, and availability of resources in their communities.
HOW DO YOU KNOW THAT YOU NEED AN AGING LIFE CARE PROFESSIONAL?
When caregiving for an aging family member becomes overwhelming, it may be time to contact an Aging Life Care Professional.
You may need an Aging Life Care Professional if:
- The person you are caring for has limited or no family support.
- Your family has just become involved with helping the individual and needs direction about available services.
- The person you are caring for has multiple medical or psychological issues.
- The person you are caring for is unable to live safely in his/her current environment.
- Your family is either “burned out” or confused about care solutions.
- Your family has a limited time and/or expertise in dealing with your loved ones’ chronic care needs.
- Your family is at odds regarding care decisions.
- The person you are caring for is not pleased with current care providers and requires advocacy.
- The person you are caring for is confused about his/her own financial and/or legal situation.
- Your family needs education and/or direction in dealing with behaviors associated with dementia.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING AN AGING LIFE CARE PROFESSIONAL?
Aging Life Care services are offered in a variety of settings. Professionals can serve the needs of their clients by providing:
- Personalized and compassionate service — focusing on the individual’s wants and needs.
- Accessibility — care is typically available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Continuity of care – communications are coordinated between family members, doctors and other professionals, and service providers.
- Cost containment — inappropriate placements, duplication of services, and unnecessary hospitalizations are avoided.
- Quality control – aging life care services follow ALCA’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.
Find a qualified Aging Life Care Expert in your area today and learn more about Aging Life Care management.
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this blog does not necessarily reflect official positions of the Aging Life Care Association™ and is provided “as is” without warranty. Always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.