A geriatric care manager—sometimes called an aging life care professional—helps an older adult and family understand needs, build a plan, and coordinate services.
NIA says these professionals are often nurses or social workers with geriatrics expertise and may make home visits, identify services, coordinate medical care, plan for housing, and support distant caregivers. [1]
When families consider one
Needs span multiple providers
Siblings disagree about priorities
The main coordinator lives far away
A discharge or move is complicated
The family needs an independent assessment
Services repeatedly fail to connect
The federal Administration for Community Living directs families to the Eldercare Locator and other local aging resources, which can complement a privately hired care manager's referrals. [2]
Questions to ask
What licenses, certifications, and experience do you hold?
Are you independent of recommended providers?
What is included in assessment and ongoing coordination?
Are you available after hours?
How are fees calculated?
How do you protect privacy?
How will the older adult participate?
What written plan and updates will we receive?
NIA notes that geriatric care management is usually paid privately and that Medicare and Medicaid generally do not cover it. [1] Confirm current coverage and costs personally.
A care manager coordinates; a non-medical caregiver performs agreed everyday tasks. Use Who Does What in Senior Care?.
Frequently asked questions
Is a geriatric care manager a caregiver?
Not in the same sense. The manager assesses and coordinates; direct caregivers provide visits and tasks.
Are all care managers licensed?
Credentials vary. Verify education, license, certification, insurance, and experience.
Can they guarantee a provider is the right fit?
No. Recommendations support a decision; families should still evaluate providers.