FAQ

What is a care management?

Care management – also known as Aging Life Care Management or Geriatric Care Management – is a service provided by a qualified professional, such as a social worker or nurse, with specialized training on issues associated with aging and disabilities. Through consultation, assessment, care coordination, and advocacy, care managers work with clients and families to address these challenges and help them to attain the highest quality of care and quality of life given their circumstances. In addition, care managers assure that a client receives the needed services in a supportive, efficient, and cost-effective manner. You can learn more about the profession by visiting the Aging Life Care Association (ALCA). We at Guiding Care are members of ALCA and are committed to the ALCA Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.

What type of clients do care managers serve?

While most of our clients are seniors, we serve adults with disabilities or complex medical needs such as younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease, ALS, and adults with developmental disabilities. Family caregivers can also benefit from the support and professional guidance of a care manager and feel prepared in an emergency should something happen to them.

Why should I hire a care manager?

You may benefit from hiring a care manager if you or the person you are caring for:

  • has multiple medical or psychological issues
  • is unable to live safely in their current environment
  • is not pleased with current care providers and requires advocacy
  • is confused about their own financial and/or legal situation
  • has limited or no family support

Or if you and your family:

  • needs direction about available services
  • is either “burned out” or confused about care solutions
  • has limited time and/or expertise in dealing with the individual’s chronic care needs
  • does not live close by
  • is at odds regarding care decisions
  • needs education and/or direction in dealing with behaviors associated with dementia

What do I do if my parents are refusing help?

We have a proven track record in overcoming resistance and can strategize with you based on your loved one’s individual circumstances. We understand that most seniors who are facing a health crisis are frightened and generally resist accepting help.

Is there any long term commitment required?

No. Our services are tailored to meet the needs of the families we serve. The degree of involvement can be increased or decreased as needs change and can be terminated at any time.

Does insurance pay for care management?

Our services are private pay and are not covered by medical insurance. Some long-term care insurance policies cover care management (care coordination) services; refer to your policy to see if care management (care coordination) is a covered benefit.

How can a care manager save me money?

Here are some of the ways a care manager can help you save money:

  • Prevent unnecessary hospitalizations or medication errors.
  • Review medical bills and insurance claims to ensure insurance is being applied appropriately.
  • Analyze the patient’s health insurance and available benefits and healthcare programs to access benefits and lower expenses.
  • Limit the family’s travel time and time away from work by responding to emergencies and preventing crises through planning, advocacy, and care coordination.
  • Resolve and deal with family disputes that may result in added expenses, delayed care, or lack of care oversight.

My parents need help, and I feel conflicted about taking over their care. How can you help?

That is a common feeling that we at Guiding Care often deal with. Frequently, recommendations are received easier when they come from a neutral third-party professional. We can help facilitate difficult family conversations such as driving cessation, managing finances, or accepting help at home.

Are you available for emergencies?

Yes – We are on call 24/7. We also aim to prevent crises through assessment, monitoring, planning, and problem-solving.

How do I get started?

We offer a FREE initial consultation, so you can see if we are the right fit for you.
Call 954-592-6032 or fill out our contact form here.