Comprehensive Assessment
Many families tell us they are willing to do whatever is needed to help Mom and Dad live life to the fullest, but don’t know what steps to take. The best way to start is with a thorough geriatric assessment to review expectations and overall needs.
This thorough assessment includes reviewing the older adult's:
Once this information is gathered, our Care Managers are able to address the client’s immediate needs. Through ongoing Care Management services, we offer assistance as those needs change over time. Click here to learn more.
Physical Safety
For older adults who are aging at home, simple modifications to their home can reduce the likelihood of an unnecessary fall. We review the day-to-day physical environment of our clients and make recommendations as to where adjustments may need to be made to entryways, bathrooms, kitchens, etc., for their safety and ease of mobility.
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Nutrition
Because grocery shopping and cooking may become increasingly difficult, our Care Managers determine whether nutritional needs of the client are being satisfied. Getting fresh food regularly becomes a priority. We review the client’s overall nutrition and identify the best solutions, whether it be Meals-on-Wheels, other food delivery alternatives, or transportation to and assistance at the grocery store.
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Cognition
You may be noticing that your loved one’s cognitive abilities have changed. Often family members may be concerned that these changes indicate some form of dementia. Our Care Managers establish a baseline for cognitive abilities during the initial visit. This baseline provides the Care Manager with a starting point against which to monitor changes on an ongoing basis and address them as needed.
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Social Wellness
Older adults’ social support networks are important. Do they have friends or family who they see regularly? Are they able to get out in the community to attend social or religious events? Do they stay home more than they would like or their family members think is appropriate? ElderCare Solutions of Michigan can recommend social and cultural activities, as well as provide transportation, if that is an obstacle.
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Medical History
During our assessment, we review our client’s medical history in order to understand how medical limitations impact daily living. We also identify physicians, medications, and pharmacies so that we can work closely with the client’s medical team, recommending consultations with additional specialists, if indicated. If it makes sense to consolidate many pharmacies into one, we can assist in that process. Our Care Managers keep copies of current medical conditions, medications and recent procedures in case of emergency.
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Legal and Financial Situation
It can be very helpful for you or your loved one to have someone by their side, serving as an advocate with financial and legal issues.
- End of Life Documentation
It is often difficult for older adults and their families to discuss issues relating to end of life documentation. However, it is important to ensure that the wishes of the client are known and no questions are left unanswered. When Advanced Directives and information regarding Durable Medical Power of Attorney are provided, the Care Manager will keep a copy and suggest updates where appropriate, in order to have current documents available in the event of an emergency.
- Guardianship & Conservatorship
Many older adults fall prey to internet or telephone scams that can cost them a large portion of their savings. Other seniors fall victim to more subtle forms of financial exploitation, such as opening their checkbook to whomever comes to their door. If these concerns exist, appointing a Conservator or Guardian can not only protect the older adult but can also relieve stress for their family members.
The Geriatric Care Managers of ElderCare Solutions of Michigan have been a valuable resource to clients of my Elder Law practice. They offer compassionate, timely care for seniors in need…from assessments to resource identification to management of care and financial needs, the professionals at ElderCare Solutions of Michigan make even the most challenging case easier to navigate.
~Howard H. Collens, Attorney at Law, Galloway and Collens
ElderCare Solutions of Michigan can help in a variety of ways. Click on each of the links below for more information.
ElderCare Solutions of Michigan Geriatric Care Managers are available to help with any need older adults may have. Call us at (248) 592-1944 for more information. If you're calling after hours, we will return your phone call on the next business day.
If you prefer us to contact you, please fill out our contact form.
The Faces of ElderCare
It's always helpful to hear from people who have been in similar situations. Click on the photos below to hear from some of our clients and their family members.
Helpful Links
