The GCM has an emergency plan for each client so when a disaster of any kind hits the area where a frail parent lives they put the plan in action.
Tucson, AZ (PRWEB) August 31, 2012
As hurricanes and storms bear down on the southeast, adult children of aging parents increase their worry, stress, and concern about the safety and wellbeing of parents living far away. Parents who are frail or have healthcare issues that require medications, equipment or daily caregiving, might be prevented from receiving those services.
Professional Geriatric Care Managers (GCM) are often the communication link that is needed in an emergency, arranging for safe evacuations, securing food, supplies, and medications, and most of all providing reassurance for families at a distance and peace for the elder.
The GCM has an emergency plan for each client so when a disaster of any kind hits the area where a frail parent lives they put the plan in action. It is best to have a relationship before the storm, but members of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers are ready all over the country to assist families and the elders they love. Families can locate a Geriatric Care Manager by visiting the “Find a Care Manager” link at the association’s website, http://www.caremanager.org.
Distant caregivers’ concerns are well founded. But they should turn fear into action, taking steps to help their elders prepare and making emergency preparation a priority. Families need to make time now to make a family readiness plan to keep everyone in the household safe.
If the family member lives in a nursing home, assisted living, or other senior community, families should know about the facility’s disaster plan, learn how specific medical needs are met during an emergency, and be sure the facility has appropriate contact information.
Seniors with health and mobility challenges who live in their own homes are especially vulnerable. Families need to plan ahead to ensure they could get the assistance they need to shelter in place or evacuate.
Geriatric Care Managers are part of a support network that are knowledgeable about the resources in their communities, and can anticipate needs and be there for the elderly when the family cannot. They can hire and supervise hourly or live-in caregivers as well. Their involvement can give the distant family an assurance that the right people are there to help. To locate a professional Geriatric Care Manager in your area, please visit: http://www.caremanager.org.
About NAPGCM
The National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (NAPGCM) was formed in 1985 to advance dignified care for older adults and their families. Geriatric Care Managers are professionals who have extensive training and experience working with older people, people with disabilities and families who need assistance with caregiving issues. They assist older adults, who wish to remain in their homes, or can help families in the search for a suitable nursing home placement or extended care if the need occurs. The practice of geriatric care management and the role of care providers have captured a national spotlight, as generations of Baby Boomers age in the United States and abroad.
A Geriatric Care Manager is a health and human services expert, such as a social worker, counselor, gerontologist or nurse, with a specialized body of knowledge and experience related to aging and care issues. A Geriatric Care Manager assists older adults and persons with disabilities in addressing issues related to their health, psychological, functional and legal/financial status. In addition, the GCM coordinates ongoing care and serves as an experienced guide and resource for families of older adults and others with chronic needs. The GCM respects the autonomy of the individual, services with sensitivity, and supports the dignity of each individual.
Geriatric care managers who are members of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (NAPGCM) are committed to adhering to the NAPGCM Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. For more information or to access a nationwide directory of professional geriatric care managers, please visit http://www.caremanager.org.