Geriatric Care Assessment

Are you concerned about an older adult? We can help.

A Geriatric Care Assessment includes reviewing an older adult’s:

  • physical safety
  • nutrition
  • cognition
  • social wellness
  • medical history
  • legal and financial situation

With a thorough assessment, our clinical social worker will be able to help determine and address the client’s immediate needs as well as help the family plan for changes that may occur over time.

Physical Safety:  For older adults who are aging at home, simple modifications to their home can reduce the likelihood of an unnecessary fall. In the Geriatric Care Assessment, a social worker will review the day-to-day  physical environment and make recommendations to promote the safety and well-being of you loved one.

Nutrition:  Grocery shopping and cooking can become difficult. Our clinical social worker can help determine whether the nutritional needs of  your loved one are being met and can help you find resources which will address these needs.

Cognition:  A person’s memory can change as one ages. Our social worker is available to educate you about cognitive changes and available options.

Social Wellness:  An elders’ social support networks are important. Do they have friends or family who they see regularly? Are they able to get out in the community to attend social or religious events? Do they stay home more than they would like or their family members think is appropriate? Our clinical social worker will educate both you and your loved one about activities which may help promote social wellness.

Medical History:  We review our client’s medical history in order to understand how medical limitations impact daily living and how these issues may be addressed.

Legal and Financial Situation:  It can be very helpful for you or your loved one to have someone available as an advocate with financial and legal issues. Referrals will be made to Elder Law Attorneys.

End of Life Documentation:  It is often difficult for older adults and their families to discuss issues relating to end of life documentation. It is important to ensure that the wishes of the elder are known and no questions are left unanswered. Our social worker can assist the elder with creating a Health Care Proxy and  Durable Power of Attorney documentation.

 

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, contact Cathy Chandler, LICSW.

Phone: 413-737-2601
Email: c.chandler@jfswm.org