Caring for someone with a dementia can test even the strongest of relationships. The anxiety, agitation and erratic behavior often associated with dementia may be hard for a spouse or adult child to understand or manage.
Aging Life Care Professionals™ work with families to find solutions to these challenges and to help them understand their loved one’s dementia and associated behaviors. In this story, Aging Life Care Association™ member Gretchen Napier, BS, MS, CMC shares how her involvement saved a marriage and allowed the family to spend quality time together during the last year of their father’s life.
WHAT IS AN AGING LIFE CARE PROFESSIONAL?
An Aging Life Care Professional, also known as a geriatric care manager, is a health and human services specialist who acts as a guide and advocate for families who are caring for older relatives or disabled adults. The Aging Life Care Professional is educated and experienced in any of several fields related to aging life care / care management, including, but not limited to nursing, gerontology, social work, or psychology, with a specialized focus on issues related to aging and elder care.
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.
Aging Life Care Professionals become the “coach” and families or clients the “team captain,” giving families the time to focus on relationships rather than the stress. Search for an Aging Life Care Professional near you.
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.