Quick answer
A geriatric care manager, also called an aging life care professional, is usually a nurse, social worker or similar professional who assesses an older adult's needs, builds a care plan, and helps arrange and oversee services. They're paid privately, usually by the hour, and Medicare doesn't cover them. The Aging Life Care Association has a directory of members. (800) 614-8388 if you'd like to talk through options first, free.
What they do
- In-home assessment of health, safety, memory and daily needs.
- A written care plan with options and costs.
- Finding and vetting home care, adult day or senior living.
- Going to doctor visits and helping with communication.
- Checking in regularly and alerting family to changes.
- Helping families agree on decisions.
When to hire one
- You live far away and need eyes on the ground.
- Siblings disagree about what's best.
- Needs are complex: dementia, several conditions, crisis after a hospital stay.
- You don't know where to start and want a professional plan.
How they charge
Most charge by the hour for assessments and ongoing help. Rates vary; ask for a written fee schedule and an estimate before you start. Medicare and most insurance don't pay. Some long-term care insurance policies may; check the policy.
How to find a good one
- Search the Aging Life Care Association directory.
- Ask about their training, credentials and experience with your parent's situation.
- Ask for references.
- Ask who they refer to, and whether they get anything from those providers.
- Get the fee agreement in writing.
Free alternatives
Your Area Agency on Aging can do assessments and connect you to services, often at no cost. See Area Agency on Aging. We're also free: we help families sort senior living, home care and moving options.
Want to talk it through first?
We'll help you understand your options and whether a care manager makes sense. Free.
Questions families ask
Is a geriatric care manager the same as an aging life care professional?
Yes. Aging life care professional is the term used by the Aging Life Care Association.
Does Medicare pay for a geriatric care manager?
No. They're usually paid privately.
How is a care manager different from a referral service?
A care manager is paid by the family to assess and oversee care. A free referral service helps you find options and is paid by providers. Both can help.
Can a care manager help long-distance families?
Yes. That's one of the most common reasons families hire one.