As people age, there are new challenges that present themselves. Navigating the healthcare system and knowing what service a person needs at a time in their life can become overwhelming. Older adults need an advocate at times. A case manager will provide resources before discharging a hospitalized person. If a person is in a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF), the site’s social worker will give the discharged patient resources. What happens once a person is home and there is no case manager or social worker on hand? Who can they turn to? Luckily, there are aging care managers who can advocate for people and provide resources.

What does an aging care manager do?

An aging care manager is usually a licensed nurse or social worker specializing in geriatrics (health care for older adults). Aging care managers work with older adults and their families to identify needs, create a care plan, and locate services in the community. They can be especially beneficial when family lives far away.

Aging care managers can assist with the following:

• Evaluate in-home care needs by assessing the situation and suggesting services or modifications to the home.
• Evaluate if the person should stay in place or recommend new housing options.
• Continuous home visits to ensure they meet the person’s needs even if they reside in a senior housing community.
• Refer to other care specialists, such as non-medical home care providers, durable medical equipment providers, specialists who can modify the home with grab bars, and more.
• Coordinate medical services, such as medical appointments, delivery of medical equipment, or ensure that the medical professionals know the person’s situation and meet their medical needs.
• Make short- and long-term plans depending on the person’s health. 
• Discuss difficult topics and complex issues to let the person and their family know what the situation is and what their options are
• Address emotional concerns and provide support.
• Provide stress relief to caregivers.

Do aging care managers go by another name?

• Aging care manager
• Case manager
• Concierge care management services
• Concierge elder management services
• Geriatric care manager
• Geriatric case manager
• Eldercare manager
• Medical social worker
• Professional care management services
• Social worker

They have many different titles, but all provide the same service.

Does insurance cover this service?

Unfortunately, medical insurance does not cover these services. Some long-term care plans may partially cover costs, but you need to look at your policy or speak with a health insurance broker/agent who knows your long-term care policy for details. Fees are paid out-of-pocket. Aging care managers’ are paid hourly, and charges vary. Most offer an initial consultation, which is separate from the hourly rate.

Where can I find someone who provides this service?

Knowing that you have someone in your corner who specializes in the older adults’ medical field and can foresee what services may be needed takes much of the stress off the family and their loved ones. STAGES is here to connect you with a local provider.

You do not have to do this journey alone. There are resources available.