Founder and Executive Director Linda Fodrini-Johnson, MA, MFT, CMC

Watch the video blog: Geriatric Care Managers

We are often asked about the background of our professional staff and I can proudly say they are all Certified as Care Managers, (CMC).  This means they have been tested and have passed an exam that says they have the knowledge to guide families with aging issues.  In order to take this test, you must have had at least 2 years of supervised care management experience and met the educational requirements.

Some professionals come to this type of work through different professional paths, such as nursing, social work, counseling, gerontology or related fields.   At Eldercare Services, we require at least 2 years in the field of elder care or senior services, but in reality, all the professional geriatric care managers on our staff currently exceed 10 years.

When families work with our agency, they not only get the care manager for their family member, but they get the experiences and wisdom of all 20 care managers.  This collective wisdom is what makes our delivery of care management attractive to families. They love the idea of knowing if their care manager is away, they have the resources of the other 19 who will know the needs and desires of their parent through our 24/7 client information system.

We are dedicated to the profession of care management and stay attuned to the latest changes in care and entitlements to older adults through on-going professional education. 

Currently, I am the President of The National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (NAPGCM), an organization of 2000 professionals across the nation.  We can help you move a parent to the Bay Area or help you move your mom to your location if it is the value and desire of your family.   Six of our professional staff members are enrolled as members of NAPGCM.

Founder and Executive Director Linda Fodrini-Johnson, MA, MFT, CMC

Days are darker and shorter, the weather is cold or wet, and yes, it is winter.  The holidays have come and gone and you find yourself feeling sad, tired and depleted.  This is somewhat normal for many of us and even more so for the older population.  They might have had lots of activity during November and December and now feel let down by the lack of stimulation and the inability to get outdoors.

 Often, once you get back to your normal activities after the holidays this temporary “blues” feeling usually goes away.  However, some individuals have enough symptoms to be diagnosed with “Seasonal Affective Disorder” (SAD).  This real illness is characterized by extreme lethargy and depression as well as some of the depressive symptoms like increased appetite, weight gain and difficulty concentrating.  Sometimes those with SAD require medication and help should be sought from a physician.  Talk therapy can also help during this time by giving one some strategies to deal with and overcome the symptoms.

 How to beat the “Winter Blues”:

 1)    Exercise releases endorphins which improves mood.  So, move – even if it is just doing a morning stretch with a television guide.  If you can, take a short 30-minute walk every day.  It might be all you need.

2)    Stay clear of sweets and carbohydrate rich foods.  Avoid alcohol because it is a depressant.  Look for low fat protein snacks and meals.

3)    Vitamin D is helpful.  In the summer you might get all the vitamin D you need by being in the sun but in the winter you might need to boost your intake.  Talk to your doctor about how much to take.

4)    Try to expose yourself to sun light when it comes out.  However, there are lights you can buy that have a similar effect as the sun. 

 The most important information is that Spring will come.  You do not need to suffer.  Seek a professional who can guide you to feeling better.  This is a very common but not welcome cycle for many individuals.

 Eldercare Services has several Care Managers on staff that are licensed therapists. Give us a call toll free at 866 760-1808 if we can help you in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Founder and Executive Director Linda Fodrini-Johnson, MA, MFT, CMC

I frequently come across individuals who are children of a negligent or abusive parent.  The adult children are now dealing with elder care and have mixed feelings that are both conflictual and challenging.

 It is hard to sacrifice time and energy and even dollars to someone who just wasn’t there for you.  The feelings of resentment, anger, disdain and even guilt will color your ability to provide care. Sometimes these adult children try to overdo to get the love they missed in their youth only to be disappointed yet another time.   However, there are often heartfelt stories of reconciliation and forgiveness leading to a more authentic, loving relationship.  Help is needed to sort out one’s ability to care if your journey as a child included less than positive parenting.

 What should one do if they face this issue? A few suggestions are: 

1) Find a local support group for adult children of aging parents. 

2) Seek professional counseling. 

 It is most important to recognize and acknowledge your own needs in order to get through the aging process with the best possible outcome for you and your loved ones.