What is a geriatric care manager?

A geriatric care manager is a licensed health or human services professional who specializes in helping older adults and their families navigate senior care decisions. At Answers for Elders, our Certified Geriatric Care Managers assess your loved one's needs, create a care plan, coordinate services, and advocate on their behalf.

What areas does Answers for Elders serve?

Answers for Elders serves seniors and families throughout Massachusetts and New England, including Plymouth County, Bristol County, Cape Cod, the South Shore, and surrounding areas. Call 781-974-7474 to confirm service in your specific town.

How do I get started with geriatric care management services?

Call us at 781-974-7474 for a free phone consultation. Our team will learn about your situation and explain how our geriatric care management and home health care services can help.

Does insurance cover geriatric care management?

Most geriatric care management services are private pay. However, some long-term care insurance policies do cover care management. We can help you navigate your coverage options. Call 781-974-7474 for more information.

Blog | answersforelders

The Big Decision Families Face

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia, one of the first questions families ask is: Can they stay at home? The answer depends on many factors — and there's no one-size-fits-all solution.

What Does "Aging in Place" Mean for Dementia Patients?

Aging in place means your loved one continues living in their own home or with family, with appropriate support services brought in. This can work well in early to moderate stages of dementia when:

The person is still able to perform some activities of daily living
A family caregiver is available and not burned out
The home environment can be made safe
Professional in-home care can supplement family support

Benefits of Aging in Place

Familiar surroundings reduce confusion and anxiety
Maintains independence and dignity
Often more affordable in early stages
Allows the person to remain close to family and community

When Is Memory Care the Right Choice?

Memory care communities provide 24/7 specialized support in a secure environment. Consider memory care when:

Safety risks increase — wandering, falls, medication errors
Caregiver burnout becomes a concern
Behavioral symptoms like aggression or severe sundowning are difficult to manage at home
Medical needs require more frequent professional monitoring
The person requires round-the-clock supervision

Questions to Ask When Evaluating Options

Can your loved one be safely left alone for any period of time?
Are there adequate caregiver resources (family + professional) to provide consistent coverage?
Is the home environment adaptable (no stairs, secured exits, etc.)?
What is the financial picture for each option?
What does your loved one prefer?

Massachusetts Memory Care Resources

Plymouth and the South Shore have several excellent options:

South Shore Elder Services — (781) 848-3910
AgingCare Resources in Plymouth County — available through MassOptions
Adult Day Health Programs throughout Plymouth County

The Role of a Geriatric Care Manager

A Geriatric Care Manager (GCM) can conduct a comprehensive assessment of your loved one and help determine the safest, most appropriate level of care. At Answers for Elders, we provide:

In-home safety assessments
Care coordination with medical providers
Vetted referrals to in-home care and memory care communities
Ongoing monitoring and family communication

Aging in Place vs. Memory Care: Which is Right for Your Loved One?