As the population of the United States continues to grow older, the need for quality geriatric care will become more and more important. According to the Population Reference Bureau, the number of Americans ages 65 and older is projected to nearly double from 52 million in 2018 to 95 million by 2060. With such a large and rapidly growing population of older adults, it is clear that there will be an increased demand for healthcare services that cater to their unique needs.
What is geriatric care management?
Geriatric care management is a type of health care services that specifically caters to the needs of older adults. It includes a wide range of services, from helping seniors manage their medications to providing in-home assistance with activities of daily living. Geriatric care managers are usually licensed health care professionals, such as nurses or social workers, who have specialized training in geriatric practice management.
Why is geriatric care important?
As people age, they often experience a decline in their physical and mental health. They may become more frail and susceptible to disease, and experience a decline in cognitive function. This can make it difficult for them to live independently and take care of themselves. Geriatric care managers can help seniors stay healthy and independent by providing them with the services they need to live safely and comfortably.
What are some of the benefits of geriatric care?
There are many benefits to receiving geriatric care, both for seniors and for their families. Some of the most important benefits include:
- Improved health and quality of life for seniors
This means that seniors can maintain their independence for longer and enjoy a better quality of life. Aside from that, studies have shown that seniors who receive regular geriatric care have fewer hospitalizations and emergency room visits, and live longer than those who do not.
- Reduced caregiver stress
When families have access to quality geriatric care, they can rest assured that their loved ones are being taken care of by professionals. This can help reduce the amount of stress and anxiety that caregivers feel.
- Lower healthcare costs
Studies have shown that seniors who receive geriatric care are less likely to need expensive medical interventions, such as hospitalization. This can help save families money on healthcare costs.
How to provide geriatric care?
If you are interested in providing geriatric care, there are a few things you can do to get started. First, consider pursuing a degree or certification in geriatric care management. This will give you the knowledge and skills you need to effectively provide care to seniors. You can also look into volunteering with organizations that provide services to older adults. This will give you a chance to learn more about their needs and how to best serve them. Finally, be sure to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in geriatric care so that you can provide the best possible care to your clients.
If you are concerned about a loved one’s health and well-being, or if you are interested in learning more about geriatric care, please make sure to contact a professional geriatric care manager. They will be able to assess your loved one’s needs and create a care plan that is tailored to their individual situation.