Geriatric Care Management Blog

Over the past couple years on more than one occasion I have talked about what a geriatric care manager (GCM) is.  Even though the national association that accredits professional geriatric care managers (NAPGCM )is about 30 years old, the question of what we are still comes up.  But there is more you should know about a care manager if you are one of the caregivers or family members looking to engage a geriatric care manager to help with your loved one.  Here are eight questions I recommend you ask anyone you are considering for your circle of care.

What are your credentials? A GCM should also have other training or credentials like a rehabilitation degree, nursing diploma or social worker license in addition to being certified as a GCM.  Ask about that. Are you certified or licensed? Are they a certified geriatric care manager or simply providing services to older adults? Just as you would not want a lawyer who did not pass the bar or an accountant...

    This marks the 100th posting on our blog since its inception October, 2010, and it gave me pause to stop and reflect on what one learns at 100.  So, whom better to ask than people who have had 100 birthdays, made it to that milestone and have been paying attention along the way.  I have gathered together here a short compilation of wisdom from some centenarians whom I felt had something to offer the rest of us.  You tell me what you think.

    Ruth offers advice on life and style.  Appreciate that Ruth lifts weights everyday and practices Pilates weekly, an activity she just picked up when she was 92.  Perhaps her most memorable piece of advice is about time and age; she says, “Don't look at the calendar just keep celebrating every day.”  This, from a lady who does not wear blue jeans and makes herself get up and out every day for at least a short walk.  (And she is a real believer in the values of...