Geriatric Care Management
Many resources for seniors are available but knowing what those resources are and how to access them is often difficult. Central Illinois Agency on Aging (CIAA), located at 700 Hamilton Boulevard in Peoria, is a powerhouse of information. References are made in some of their brochures to “your one-stop-shop for information on senior services.” They’re referring to themselves and the diverse information they provide. They can direct seniors, or a friend or loved one calling on seniors’ behalf through issues concerning, safety, nutrition, transportation, housekeeping assistance and a myriad of others. Often one of the most valuable services they provide is a caring attitude as they help the caller realize answers are available.
Lori Reimer, Director of Outreach and Community Services for CIAA, is Manager of Mature Solutions II (MS2), a new program geared to help caregivers “plan for and implement ways to allow for independence, safety and comfort.” Lori says a key factor for all the various programs for seniors is safety and for this particular program, the goal is to help keep the senior safe in his or her own home. She explains the development of this program was started over a year ago.
MS2 employs geriatric care managers who have specialized knowledge and experience related to aging and senior care issues. The care managers assist older adults and their families in the planning and implementing of ways to allow for independence, safety and comfort for the senior. A comprehensive assessment of the senior’s needs, including physical, emotional, financial, social, and safety, is completed, and the care plan is then discussed with the senior and his or her family.
“Our geriatric care assessment will provide family members peace of mind,” says Lori. “Long distance and working caregivers need an impartial second set of eyes and ears to assess the needs of their parents or grandparents. Sometimes it’s a matter of having someone with a different point of view evaluating the situation. Someone who is non-judgmental to see what is actually needed in order for mom and dad to remain healthy and stay safe while remaining in their own home.”
Another issue of concern with seniors is isolation, says Lori. And that often escalates with those living alone in their own home. Adult day care services can also be arranged. The senior might be capable of living alone, and might actually prefer that, but he or she might also enjoy and benefit from socialization.
Geriatric care management involves an in-depth assessment, development of a care plan, arrangement of services, and follow up or monitoring care. There is no obligation to implement any part of the suggested care plan. Lori points out, however, that sometimes alternatives for care are suggested, and they may be ones that the senior or his or her family have not considered.
There is a fee for the assessment, and a client agreement form is signed. All proceeds received from private pay to MS2 go back into providing services to the elderly within this program.
In filling out applications for this program or others that CIAA offers, Lori says, “We try not to ask more than we need to.” She and others are respectful of the privacy that many seniors wish to maintain. Certain questions do need to be asked and the corresponding answers are pertinent to the types of programs and services available to seniors and their caregivers.
Emphasizing that education is key, Lori says she talks to clubs, organizations, and church groups to provide people with information on the geriatric care management. To inquire about services provided, or to ask about a speaker for your group or organization, call 674-2071,ext. 2221.
Central Illinois Agency on Aging serves older adults and their caregivers in Peoria, Stark, Marshall, Woodford, Tazewell, and Fulton Counties. It is a private, not-for-profit service agency committed to serving seniors, family caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren.
For additional information on Mature Solutions II or any of the other numerous programs available through CIAA, call 674-2071 or Toll Free 1-877-777-2422. Information is also available on their website: http://www.ciaoa.com
The 12th Annual Celebrating Seniors is Saturday, May 16th, 2009 from 10:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. at Exposition Gardens. Information, health screenings, assistance with prescription medications, entertainment, door prizes, and a free hot meal for seniors and caregivers are all part of the day’s events. You must register for the meal by calling 674-2071. The event is sponsored by Central Illinois Agency on Aging, Inc.
