Question: I’m trying to manage my mother’s doctor appointments, health insurance and everyday needs from long distance, but this is becoming overwhelming. Is there a service that I could rely on to provide my mother with the care she needs while I am so far away (long distance caregiving)?
Answer: Meeting the needs of your loved one from hundreds of long distance is no easy task. Increasingly, as the population ages, many families are finding themselves in similar situations. Professional geriatric care management specializes in the challenges associated with long distance caregiving. This service is designed to ensure peace-of-mind when it is neither feasible nor realistic to be hands-on and act as a locally-based caregiver. A professionally trained care manager specializes in caring for the aged, injured and disabled, and acts as a consultant and advocate for your loved one, ensuring the integrity of care you demand.
For instance, at FirstLantic Healthcare, we conduct a thorough assessment of the client’s needs, evaluate his or her ability to function independently, review his or her physical, emotional, and social well-being, as well as financial viability and medical condition. We develop and discuss a plan of care, arrange for the appropriate services, and fully implement the plan, which can be as extensive or as minimal as the situation warrants. Services include:
- Client advocacy
- Comprehensive evaluations and assessments
- Special needs trust and disability management
- Crisis intervention
- Supportive counseling
- Medication management
- Budget preparation
- Attendance at appointments
- Coordinating care and community services
- Residential placement assistance
- Guardianship monitoring and/or avoidance
- Legal support through complementary documentations
Care managers are nurses or social workers, specialists that understand the intricacies of the healthcare system. If and when you make the decision to hire a professional management company, be sure they deliver the right combination of service, professionalism and kindness. It makes all the difference in providing you a sense of security and alleviating the anxiety and concerns of taking care of your loved one in the best possible manner.
Bart Delsing, Owner & Chief Operating Officer
FirstLantic Healthcare, Inc.
Delray Beach, Florida 33445