Assistance for Care Givers

Regina Curran, who is a Geriatric Care Manager, came to the EAP and presented information to employees about what professionals in her area can do to help families who have an elderly relative or friend for whom they are caring.  She explained that they also help families with young or disabled children who need resources, especially with Mental Health resources.  Sometimes families also need a Home Health Aid. The Care Manger can help a family get connected to one.

All in all, a Care Manger can help you in many arenas. Their website is www.midatlanticgcm.org. On it is stated, “A Geriatric Care Manager specializes in assisting older people and their families with long-term care arrangements. We can help you meet the challenges of long distance care giving, put together a comprehensive plan for present or future needs, provide extra assistance for relocation, or monitor your relative during your vacation.”

A Geriatric Care Manager will meet with the family and do an assessment, which generally takes 2 hours.  Then, they can help the family put resources in place.  However, a Geriatric Care Manager can also just consult with a family and give suggestions or recommendations.  They can help educate families about what programs are available for additional services. They can be helpful to families whose loved one lives in Maryland, but can also help with long distance cases.

An interesting book for Care Givers to read is “The 36-Hour Day.”  One interesting caveat Regina shared is that Care Givers often don’t take care of themselves like they should.  Often, a Care Giver will pass away before the person they are caring for because of neglecting their own health.  So, self-care is important to all. Contact the EAP to find out the myriad of possibilities for people to take care of themselves.  Your loved one will thank you for it!!