Care manager can give elderly support

Yet another article about elder individuals victimized by fraud (“Scams targeting baby boomers on the rise,” Monday, March 5) reveals serious gaps in care for vulnerable older adults that should concern us all. Those who prey on the elderly can do so, in part because of the isolation and resistance to help that often accompany illness and aging.

Swindlers, whether criminal caregivers, officials subverting their duty or professional con artists exert undue and dangerous influence precisely because of an elder’s lack of bona fide support

One valuable resource for preventing and combating elder abuse, is that of geriatric care manager. Geriatric care manager (GCM) are professionals (typically registered nurses or social workers) who expertly assess an elder’s strengths and limitations, their needs and preferences; connect the family to the high quality and cost effective services; and oversee caregiving situations to ensure safety and well being.

They have the expertise to tactfully and gently establish relationships with elders in the most difficult situations and serve as a buffer between a vulnerable older adult and a would be abuser.

In an increasingly fragmented system of care, where no provider has the “full picture” of an elder’s situation, geriatric care managers bring the pieces together and help bring peace and pleasure to older adults and the people who care about them. They can serve as protection and a “port in the storm” for a vulnerable older adult.

Signe Gleeson

President, ElderCare Solutions, Inc.

Naperville