How to Be Geriatric Care Manager - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 12, 2021 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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As people age, their needs for healthcare and day-to-day assistance increase. Having a Geriatric Care Manager can help to ensure that seniors receive the care they need, when they need it. Geriatric Care Managers are knowledgeable professionals who specialize in aging-related issues.

They work with seniors and their families to assess their needs and develop a comprehensive plan to meet those needs. By evaluating an individuals medical, financial, and social situation, the Geriatric Care Manager can provide access to resources such as home health care, long-term care insurance, assisted living, and other services. It is important to have a Geriatric Care Manager to provide a level of comfort and security to seniors and their families as they navigate the aging process.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. Obtaining a bachelor's degree in gerontology, social work, nursing, public health, or another relevant field is the first step to becoming a geriatric care manager.
Take an Exam. After completing the bachelor's degree, individuals should take the Certified Geriatric Care Manager (CGMC) exam administered by the National Academy of Certified Care Managers. The exam tests knowledge of geriatric care and also assesses skills in management and communication.
Gain Work Experience. Working in a related field or as a volunteer in a geriatric setting can help individuals gain valuable experience and an understanding of the unique needs of older adults.
Consider Specializing. Geriatric care managers may choose to specialize in areas such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, end-of-life care, or mental health. Pursuing certifications or additional training in these areas can help geriatric care managers stand out among their peers.
Become Licensed. Depending on the state, geriatric care managers may need to become licensed in order to practice. Requirements vary by state, so it is important to research the applicable regulations in the state where the geriatric care manager will practice.
Participate in Continuing Education. As with any health care-related field, continuing education is important to maintain knowledge and stay up to date on changes in the field. Geriatric care managers should look for conferences and seminars to attend, or consider taking courses or workshops related to geriatrics.

As a geriatric care manager, it is important to stay up-to-date and qualified in order to provide the best care for elderly patients. To do this, staying informed on the latest research, trends, and developments in the field of geriatrics is essential. This includes attending conferences, seminars, and continuing education courses to gain new knowledge and skills.

it is important to obtain certification in geriatric care management to demonstrate expertise and credibility. Finally, forming relationships with other care managers and medical professionals can provide a valuable support network for seeking advice and staying informed of best practices. By doing these things, geriatric care managers can ensure they are providing the highest quality of care for their elderly patients.

You may want to check Public Health Educator for the Elderly, Gerontological Psychologist, and Senior Living Facility Director for alternative.

Job Description

Provide counseling and support to elderly individuals and their families.
Develop, review and update individual care plans for elderly clients.
Communicate with physicians and other healthcare providers regarding the care of elderly clients.
Monitor services provided to elderly clients to ensure compliance with standards of care.
Educate and advise families on available resources and options for long-term care.
Facilitate communication between elderly clients and their families.
Advocate on behalf of elderly clients to ensure their needs are met.
Coordinate transportation and other services needed by elderly clients.
Monitor medications and nutritional needs of elderly clients.
Assess safety of elderly clients homes and advise on potential health risks.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of the aging process and age-related physical and cognitive changes.
Understanding of community resources and services available to seniors.
Skills in assessing, developing, and implementing care plans.
Ability to develop and maintain collaborative relationships with clients, families, and other professionals.
Skilled in crisis management and problem solving.
Proficiency in written and verbal communication.
Understanding of legal and ethical issues related to geriatric care.
Good organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks and plan ahead.
Ability to use technology to monitor clients progress and coordinate services.
Financial acumen, including budgeting and program evaluation.

A geriatric care manager is an important professional who provides support and assistance to elderly individuals and their families. A successful geriatric care manager must possess a variety of skills, but the most important is an extensive knowledge of aging, including the physical and emotional changes that can occur as people age. This knowledge is critical in order to effectively assess and address the needs of elderly individuals.

Furthermore, a geriatric care manager must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills in order to effectively communicate with clients and their families, as well as other health care providers. They must also be able to work collaboratively with health care professionals and agencies in order to ensure that the elderly receive the best possible care. geriatric care managers must be able to effectively manage a caseload, prioritize tasks, and remain organized in order to provide the best possible care for their clients.

All of these skills are necessary to ensure that elderly individuals receive the care that they need and deserve.

Gerontology Case Manager, Activities Director in a Nursing Home, and Elder Law Attorney are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with geriatric clients?
What strategies do you use to help elderly clients manage stress and depression?
How would you handle a situation where an elderly client has lost the ability to make decisions for themselves?
How do you ensure that elderly clients receive the best possible care?
What challenges have you faced while working with geriatric clients?
Describe your approach to developing a care plan for an elderly client.
How do you handle conflict or disagreements when working with geriatric clients or their families?
What methods do you use to ensure that elderly clients receive the appropriate level of care?
Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision while caring for a geriatric client.
How do you maintain accurate records when caring for elderly clients?

Common Tools in Industry

Electronic Health Records (EHR). An electronic system that stores and organizes patient data, including medical history, medications, and test results. (Eg: Epic, Cerner)
Case Management Software. A software program designed to help manage complex cases, including tracking services, setting goals, and evaluating outcomes. (Eg: CarePaths, CarePort)
Telehealth Platforms. Technology-enabled platforms that allow providers and patients to interact remotely. (Eg: Teladoc, Doctor on Demand)
Activity Tracking Software. Software that helps track the activities of seniors in their care and monitor any changes in their health status. (Eg: Wellframe, Caremerge)
Care Planning Tools. Software programs that help create individualized care plans for seniors, based on their specific needs and preferences. (Eg: CareTend, Brightree)
Communication Tools. Platforms that enable caregivers to communicate with each other and coordinate care plans. (Eg: ClearCare, CareTeam)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (NAPGCM)
National Council on Aging (NCOA)
American Society on Aging (ASA)
The Gerontological Society of America (GSA)
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Eldercare Locator
Alzheimers Association
American Geriatrics Society (AGS)
The National Adult Day Services Association (NADSA)
Medicare Rights Center

We also have Senior Care Specialist, Geriatrics Physician, and Gerontology Nurse jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Geriatric Assessment. An evaluation of an older adults physical, psychological, social, and functional status in order to develop a care plan.
Care Plan. A written document that outlines a person's long-term care needs and care goals, and the steps taken to meet those needs.
Advance Care Planning. A process of discussing and documenting a person's wishes for their future health care in the event that they are unable to speak for themselves.
Caregiver Support. Assistance with providing care for a loved one who is ill or elderly, including emotional, physical, and financial assistance.
Long-term Care. A range of services and supports to meet the ongoing needs of people with chronic illnesses or disabilities.
Social Services. Programs and services that provide assistance and support to individuals and families in need.
End of Life Care. Care and support for people in the last stages of life and their families.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Geriatric Care Manager?

A Geriatric Care Manager is a health care professional who specializes in providing comprehensive assessment and care management services to older adults and their families. They work with individuals, families, and other service providers to create a coordinated plan of care.

What services do Geriatric Care Managers provide?

Geriatric Care Managers typically provide assessments, care coordination, advocacy, assistance with decision-making, crisis intervention, and referrals to community resources.

Who benefits from the services of a Geriatric Care Manager?

Geriatric Care Managers can provide assistance to older adults and their families who are dealing with a wide range of issues, including chronic health conditions, disability, end-of-life planning, and long-term care.

How much does it cost to hire a Geriatric Care Manager?

The cost of hiring a Geriatric Care Manager will vary depending on the services provided and the location of the practice. Fees are typically charged on an hourly basis or may be based on a package of services.

What qualifications should I look for in a Geriatric Care Manager?

Geriatric Care Managers should be certified by a professional organization such as the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (NAPGCM) or the Aging Life Care Association (ALCA). Additionally, they should have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in social work, nursing, gerontology, or a related field.

Web Resources

Working with a geriatric-care manager - Harvard Health www.health.harvard.edu
Understanding the Role of a Geriatric Care Management Supervisor gero.usc.edu
Program: Geriatric Care Manager Professional Certificate catalog.misericordia.edu