When an aging loved one begins to need more support, families often find themselves navigating medical care, finances, home needs and difficult decisions all at once. But families do not have to wait until a crisis happens to ask for help. JFS Richmond’s Care Management team can help families plan ahead and put support in place before challenges become overwhelming.
JFS Care Services Director Frank Fox describes Care Management as “a service that helps people with complex health or aging needs live safely and independently within the community or in an assisted living environment.”
“A Care Manager can be thought of as an individual or family’s personal project manager, assisting to navigate both their medical, financial and personal health to sustain longevity,” Frank said.
Care Managers assess a client’s medical, financial, physical and emotional needs, create a plan and coordinate with doctors, home care providers and other members of the client’s support network. They can also keep family members informed, particularly when loved ones live out of town.
JFS Richmond also offers services that allow families to plan ahead and establish support before it is urgently needed. Through retainer services, clients can complete an assessment and have their information entered into JFS’s electronic medical record system. JFS then checks in periodically to learn about any changes in the client’s situation. If care management or home care is needed later, the groundwork is already in place, allowing JFS to respond more quickly.
JFS can also serve as a Power of Attorney or Advanced Medical Directive agent for individuals who do not have someone available to take on that role. In other situations, JFS can serve as a backup when a client’s designated agent is close in age or may not always be able to serve. Having someone in place can provide peace of mind that there is a trusted organization available when it is needed most.
Frank has seen firsthand how early support can make a difference. JFS worked with one client for several years, helping her remain safely in her home with Care Management and Home Care services. As her dementia progressed, however, she eventually needed more support than could be safely provided at home.
After difficult conversations and reassurance, the client agreed to move to an assisted living facility. Today, she continues to thrive with additional support and opportunities for socialization. JFS also helped with the financial and logistical work involved in preparing her home for sale.
Frank encourages families to consider Care Management before they reach that point.
“Proactive planning is always the best time to consider Care Management services,” Frank said. “It is easier to maintain and monitor situations rather than waiting for crisis situations to happen.”
Early intervention can help prevent crises, reduce stress, honor a client’s wishes and potentially save money in the long run. Planning ahead can also give families greater confidence that someone understands their loved one’s needs and can step in when circumstances change.
Care Management isn’t just for older adults, either.
“It’s for anyone who needs assistance with life transitions,” he said. “The goal of Care Management is to try and preserve a client’s independence as long as possible.”
For families beginning to notice changes in a loved one—or simply wanting to plan ahead—JFS Richmond can help. Getting support early gives families the opportunity to understand their options, create a plan and have someone in their corner before a crisis occurs.
If you or someone you know could benefit from Care Management, learn more at JFSRichmond.org/care/care-management/ or call (804) 282-5644.
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