How We Function
We start with a face to face interaction for those who interested in understanding the options of care management and the available resources appropriate for their needs. Some times your need is immediate which warrants immediate intervention of it can be for a future need where you are getting prepared well ahead. A consultation can be one time or lead to further support.
We meet with clients, their families or the concerned persons to assess the condition, care needs, safety, and General well being. This is a thorough audit of the medical conditions, physical, emotional and social functioning. Based on our assessment, we develop a comprehensive plan of care tailored to each individual’s needs and budget. We give utmost importance to preventive care knowing very well that any ‘messing up’ will have a devastating effect on the overall functioning of the aged we listen to concerns and partner with you to achieve your goals. Elder Care Experts (ECE) takes a careful step-by-step approach to serving each client. The development and implementation of a care plan is the result of our understanding of your individual and family needs. See below.
CONSULTATION
Even before care management begins, many clients benefit from an initial consultation. It is a good way for you and your loved one to assess whether Elder Care Experts are the right match for your family’s situation and it helps us determine which of our expert is the best fit. Even after a specific expert is assigned, the entire team remains engaged. You get the benefit of our combined experience.
We will provide you with a questionnaire to prepare for the consultation. Your answers help us to know the issues that need our focus during the face to face discussion. During the consultation, we learn about your specific needs and discuss how we can help. This is an assurance that we hand hold you and you are not alone.
Step 1 : Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment
ECE will begin the vital process of refining the assessment. We plan a visit to conduct a CGA. The social gerontologist will consider all pertinent aspects of your life and care goals, such as the current quality of life, financial resources, general welfare, and safety. Among the factors the social gerontologist will assess are the client’s:
- Past and present medical history
- Cognitive and mental health status
- Functional strengths and challenges
- Nutritional status
- Physician involvement and current medical treatment plan
- Home safety and improvement assessment
Step 2 : Care Plan
We develop an individualised care plan using the assessment information together with the family’s concerns of our clients. The complete care plan identifies problem areas, establishes goals, suggests detailed interventions to meet those goals, and outlines the costs of the options and alternatives. The care plan is the road map to the process and is re-assessed and updated as needed so that it addresses any changes in circumstances.
Step 3 : Education
We provide information and education to maximise your participation in decision-making and care plan implementation. Awareness of appropriate and alternative choices helps you to make the best decisions. This working partnership helps ensure your right to self-determination. We only suggest and ask all stake holders to consider our interpretation of the situation and ultimately it is your decision.
Step 4 : Implementation
Once the care plan is accepted and approved, you determine the extent of our involvement in implementing the plan. You don’t need to figure it out alone. Typically, we work with you to coordinate the involvement and activities of an interdisciplinary team (for example, home health care agency staff, physicians, physical therapists, and facility staff). We then monitor progress on a regular basis and modify the care plan as and when it is necessary.
Step 5 : Advocacy
Passion, expertise and compassion drives us and that’s what make us different from others. No matter where care is provided, whether hospital room, rehabilitation facilities, doctors’ offices, nursing homes, or home care, advocacy is critical. Meeting your family’s goals requires ongoing coordination of the interdisciplinary team and attention to the needs and desires of your loved one.
Patients become easily confused, overwhelmed and often lose a certain amount of autonomy. Without an advocate, patients’ questions may go unanswered, goals can be lost, and the care provided may not be what the patient and family want. Over many years, Elder Care Experts have carefully established relationships with patients and their primary care providers throughout the community and can artfully step into the advocacy role.