Geriatric Care Managers are sometimes referred to as "surrogate sisters." We are engaged by families who are concerned about the health and/or safety of a loved one.  Often, family members live far away and/or are too busy to check in as frequently as they would like and/or just don’t know what to do.   

After speaking with you to learn more about gives you “pause”, we meet with the older adult(s) and provide a comprehensive assessment of their current situation. Often, we gain insight simply because we are NOT family! 

We provide feedback - evaluation of what may be necessary to ensure the safety and health of their loved ones.  We provide referrals to medical/other professionals, make suggestions to  help ensure safety and educate families how to plan effectively for the future.  

As care managers, we can manage transitions and provide as much (or as little) ongoing assistance as desired.  We can accompany your loved ones to medical appointments, recommend/oversee caregivers in the home,  visit regularly for ongoing assessments and suggest when it may be time for a move and coordinate details. 

Sometimes, an incapacitated person needs a Guardian (medical decision-maker) and there are no family members or friends available, willing and/or appropriate to take on such role. People who may need a Guardian include older adults with cognitive deficits, persons who have an intellectual  disability and those who may have a traumatic brain injury or struggle with their mental health.

 A professional (or third party) fiduciary can step into that role.  Guardians must be appointed through a court order and are all subject to the supervision of the court.

 Guardians make decisions regarding a person's support, care, education, health and welfare. All wards (people under Guardianship) should be encouraged to participate in decisions. Guardians shall consider the expressed desires and personal values of the person under Guardianship to the extent known to the guardian. A guardian shall always act in the person's best interest and exercise reasonable care, diligence and prudence.
C.R.S. 14-15-314(1)

 

 

  

Planning ahead is important.  And, one of the crucial planning tasks is to appoint Medical and Financial agents, to make decisions on your behalf  in the event that you become incapacitated.  Appointing agents can often eliminate the need for Guardians (and Conservators) should you no longer be capable of making your own decisions. 

ELDEResources LLC can act as your Medical Power of Attorney (or as a successor power of attorney) if you don't have family members/friends who would be appropriate to appoint.
 

Our duty (after appointed) is to understand your wishes and desires regarding healthcare matters. Once we have that conversation, you can keep us in your back pocket!  And... it is also important to let important people (doctors, financial advisers, neighbors) know who we are.
 

Periodic reviews and check-ins are all that is necessary unless you require the assistance of a medical decision-maker.