“I wish I had met you 3 years ago!” This comment makes me smile when I think of the lovely gentleman who said it to me when he first became my client. Fortunately, I was able to work side by side with him for several years, assisting him in the care of his wife and his own adjustment to the changes she experienced. Later we separated out his needs and preferences for his quality of life. This was a very rewarding relationship indeed – for each of us.
During my 17 years at Eldercare this wistful sentiment has presented itself often – people wishing they had connected with a geriatric care manager earlier in their journey. Frequently I am asked for a handbook that prepares one for the eventualities in caring for a person entrusted to them, or perhaps one that helps them prepare for their own unforeseen needs. Surely there are books and articles some of which are very helpful. However, just as one financial how-to book cannot prepare one for all aspects of investing, one how-to book cannot prepare a person for advocacy and navigation in the retirement and healthcare arena.
The fact is that appropriate questions rarely present themselves until after the crisis – this is unfortunate, but true. Having the perfect professional team in place can help avoid crises, minimize risks and foster a plan of action for the short-term as well as the long-term.
This team should include a financial planner; a legal advisor and a certified geriatric care manager. Financial projection is obviously a must; however, what you are planning for may be less clear. Legally, a consultation with an attorney versed in elder law can be strategically important. Benefits often need to be looked into, particularly when couples have shared assets. Also, clarifying legal documents can minimize future problems.
A geriatric care manager is an invaluable member of this team. Their expertise assists in many ways – providing an inside look at living transitions, navigating the healthcare system, working with families to find solutions both internal and external, providing dementia education where needed and advocacy whenever there is a need.
Getting this team in place before it is needed is the best time to do it, but whenever you do it, having your perfect team will allow for greater freedom from worry financially, emotionally, and physically.