While visiting with your loved ones, pay attention to any changes in their appearance, behavior or environment; it can be a sign that his/her health is changing.  Has their hygiene changed? Have they lost weight? Do they seem more forgetful or repetitious in conversation? Are there expired or spoiled food items in the refrigerator?

If you have concerns, it may be time to contact an Aging Life Care Professional.  Aging Life Care Managers, while not a new profession, are a resource that are frequently unknown by families.  Their expertise makes them a valuable resource to those who seek assistance navigating the complex health care system and crafting long-term care plans that are perfectly suited to the needs of your loved ones.

The Aging Life Care Department at Chelsea Jewish includes two Certified Advanced Social Work Case Managers who are familiar with the resources and issues regarding long-term care.  We provide a comprehensive assessment in order to help families determine the best course of action, whether it be at home with agency services and care management, or placement in the most appropriate facility. Our assessment includes the social, psychological, medical, environmental and financial aspects of a person’s life, which gives us a very complete and detailed Plan of Care, especially for long-term issues.

Our services can also include the following:

  • Screen, arrange and monitor in-home help or other services
  • Provide crisis intervention
  • Act as a liaison to families at a distance, making sure things are going well and alerting families to problems
  • Assist with moving an older person to or from a home, rest home, assisted living facility or specialized memory impairment unit
  • Provide consumer education and advocacy
  • Offer supportive counseling and support

For additional information regarding Aging Life Care Management, please contact Leslie Hazlett at 978-471-5153 or email lhazlett@chelseajewish.org.

This blog is courtesy of Leslie Hazlett, Aging Life Care Professional at the Chelsea Jewish Foundation.

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