Bridging Generations

One of the clinical skills necessary for good care management is good interviewing ability.  We ”listen with the third ear”.  We listen before we advise.

1.  Arrangements are made to meet the frail elder personally, along with interested and responsible family members.

2.  A functional and interactive assessment is conducted to determine the older person’s mental abilities, social style, physical limitations, ability to purchase services if recommended, and family support system.

3.  A plan of action may be implemented immediately or over an extended period of time.  Choices such as employing a home care worker, enrolling the elder in a day program, transitioning the elder into congregate living are options.

4.  Sometimes additional information needs to be gathered through medical testing, consultation with the family attorney, or a conference with the accountant.

5.  Cost and performance expectations are discussed between the care manager and the family members…geriatric care consultation is always an interactive process.

6.  Once a plan is in place, the care manager may be retained to monitor the progress of the plan.  On the other hand, immediate action is sometimes refused by the frail elder but the care manager can help the family wait for a chance to intervene.

7.  At Bridging Generations, we are available “24/7” to support families and their frail elder(s). 

CLIENT TESTIMONY

Wilfred J. Gregson II (VA)

Son of Lillian C. Gregson

My family and I affectionately refer to our care manager as "Agent Jane".  It is difficult to sum up the services she has provided us simply because they are so inclusive. This gimlet-eyed investigator is capable of inspecting a facility so you can be sure your loved one is receiving the proper attention; she does this on a snap basis, and the facilities she deals with, know and respect her authority.

Agent Jane is an expert in choosing the best match between what a facility can provide and the special needs of the person you love so much. Additionally, she is capable of managing all aspects of the transition of your loved one from living at home to needing full time care in a special environment.  She knows when to call a lawyer, accountant, or other professional and more importantly, when not to. 

Finally, when you must assume responsibility for managing the affairs of that someone you have always looked up to…when that responsibility falls on you emotionally like the proverbial ton of bricks…her keen insight and support has helped with the transition and grieving.

CLIENT TESTIMONY 

Erik & Donna vanVoorhees (PA)

Children of Dorothy McMahon

It was a hectic couple of weeks that would have been nothing short of horrendous were it not for Jane’s expertise, sage advice, and reassuring temperament.  She handled it like the pro she is and it could not have gone any smoother.  Mom adjusted amazingly well to the assisted living facility that was recommended.  Thanks to Jane we now have Mom’s finances under firm control, and have all the family members agreeing to the long term planning for her care.

We don’t think anybody is truly prepared when a parent dies or is suffering from dementia.  Navigating the maze of hospitals, social workers, health care choices, financial considerations, and everything else can be overwhelming, especially when you’re so emotionally intertwined.  We had no idea there was someone out there like Jane who miraculously appeared to hold everyone’s hand, Mom and family alike, and helped us solve the problems.

We feel as if we’ve made a lifelong friend who we will continue to call upon for assistance going forward…she’s the best!!!