It seems obvious to most that if they have a medical problem they should see a doctor; a legal problem, a lawyer; and if your car won't start, a mechanic. If you are having caregiving problems there are also experts available to help.
Learning by experience works, but not as well as learning from the experience and expertise of others. Very often, we don't even know the questions we should be asking, what help is available to us, or even the actual needs of our parent. The first step is to admit that we are not expected to know all the answers and that asking for advice is the wise thing to do. Now that we have set the right mental attitude we can seek out the advisors we need.
Okay, I admit it. I need advice. So what do I do now? Start my making a list of your concerns. When you are able to figure out, and write down the first question, you will find that many more will come to you, and the list will soon grow. With your questions in hand, you can begin the search for advice.
The best and most comprehensive advice can be found by using the services of a Geriatric Care Manager (GCM). A nationally certified GCM will be thoroughly familiar with all aspects of caregiving. They will begin by doing a comprehensive assessment of your parent's status and their needs. A GCM will know, what resources are available in your community and will help you build a care plan that will be best suited to your particular situation. They will be able to refer you to other professionals, whose services may be needed such as elder-law attorneys, doctors, or home healthcare.
GCMs normally charge between $95and $125 per hour for their services. If you are able to make an investment of a few hundred dollars, you will enjoy ongoing savings and better care, now, and well into the future.
You can locate a GCM in your area by going to the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers locator at www.caremanager.org. You can also call the Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116. In many areas, you can contact your local Eldercare Locator directly by dialing 211. The phone advisers will be helpful in identifying resources for services and information Try looking in the Yellow Pages. A good starting point is Senior Citizen Services.
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