A Certified Aging Life Care Professional (ALCP), formerly known as a Geriatric Care Manager, is a specially trained professional who helps older adults and their families navigate the complex challenges of aging. We are advocates, coordinators, and problem-solvers who bring expertise in healthcare, psychology, social work, and gerontology to support aging adults in living their best possible lives.

Our comprehensive services include:

Assessment and Planning: We conduct thorough assessments of physical, mental, social, and environmental needs to develop personalized care plans tailored to each client's unique situation.

Care Coordination: We coordinate with physicians, specialists, therapists, and other healthcare providers to ensure seamless communication and integrated care.

Crisis Intervention: When emergencies arise, we provide immediate assistance and help manage transitions such as hospital discharges or urgent care needs.

Housing and Placement: We help identify and evaluate appropriate living arrangements, whether that's aging in place, assisted living, memory care, or other senior housing options.

Financial and Legal Coordination: While we don't provide legal or financial advice directly, we work alongside your attorney, financial planner, and other professionals to ensure all aspects of your care plan are addressed.

Caregiver Support: We provide education, resources, and emotional support to family caregivers, helping prevent burnout and maintain quality care.

Ongoing Monitoring: We make regular visits and check-ins to reassess needs, adjust care plans, and ensure quality of life is maintained.

Aging Life Care services benefit a wide range of individuals and families, including:

• Older adults who want to age in place safely and independently

• Families living far away from aging parents (often called "long-distance caregivers")

• Adult children juggling careers and caregiving responsibilities

• Seniors recovering from surgery, illness, or hospitalization

• Individuals with chronic conditions such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, or dementia

• Families facing difficult decisions about care options and living arrangements

• Anyone feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of elder care and healthcare systems

Unlike home health aides or private caregivers who provide hands-on care, we focus on comprehensive care management and advocacy. We don't provide direct personal care like bathing or dressing, but instead ensure the entire care system is working effectively. We're also different from social workers or case managers employed by hospitals or agencies because we work independently for you and your family, providing continuity of care across all settings and over time.

Certified Aging Life Care Professionals must meet rigorous standards including:

• Advanced degrees in fields such as nursing, social work, psychology, or gerontology

• Extensive experience working with older adults and their families

• Certification through the Aging Life Care Association, requiring ongoing education and adherence to professional standards

• Knowledge of medical, psychological, financial, and legal issues related to aging

• Familiarity with community resources and long-term care options

Our fees vary based on the complexity and frequency of services needed. Some clients need only a one-time assessment and care plan, while others benefit from ongoing monthly monitoring. We provide a clear fee schedule and detailed invoices so you always know what to expect.

Most traditional health insurance plans and Medicare do not cover Aging Life Care services. However, some long-term care insurance policies include coverage for care management. We recommend checking with your long-term care insurance provider. Some clients use funds from Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to pay for our services. Many families find that our services actually save money by preventing crises, avoiding unnecessary hospitalizations, and helping make informed decisions about care options.

Getting started is simple:

1. Initial Contact: Reach out to schedule a free consultation

2. Consultation: We'll discuss your situation, concerns, and needs

3. Assessment: If you decide to move forward, we'll conduct a comprehensive assessment

4. Care Plan: We'll develop a detailed, personalized care plan with recommendations

5. Implementation: We'll help implement the plan and provide ongoing support as needed

Absolutely. In fact, many of our clients are long-distance caregivers who need local eyes and ears to monitor their loved one's wellbeing. We provide regular updates through phone calls, emails, or video conferences, and we're available to coordinate with family members across time zones. We become your trusted local representative, providing peace of mind when you can't be there in person.

Resistance to accepting help is common, and we have extensive experience working with individuals who may be reluctant at first. We approach each situation with sensitivity, patience, and respect for the individual's autonomy. Often, we can build trust by starting with small, non-threatening services and gradually expanding support as the relationship develops. We also help families have difficult conversations about care needs in a constructive, supportive way.

While we specialize in working with older adults (typically age 65 and older), we also assist younger adults with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or complex medical needs who require similar care coordination and advocacy services.

Communication frequency is tailored to your needs and preferences. For some families, weekly updates are appropriate, while others prefer monthly check-ins. In crisis situations, we communicate as often as necessary. We're also available between scheduled contacts if urgent issues arise. You'll always have direct access to reach us when you need support.

We serve the greater Metro Atlanta area and most of Georgia, including the following counties: Fulton, Gwinnett, Cobb, Cherokee, Forsyth, Hall, Oconee, Jackson, Clarke, Bibb, Houston, Henry, Bryan, Chatham, Effington, Columbia, and Richmond. While we focus on this geographic region, we can often help coordinate care for loved ones in other locations through our network of Aging Life Care Professionals nationwide.

There's no minimum commitment required. Some clients need only a one-time consultation and assessment, while others benefit from ongoing support over months or years. We're flexible and work with you to determine the level of service that best meets your needs and budget.

Common signs that it's time to seek help include:

• Difficulty managing multiple medications or medical appointments

• Concerns about safety at home (falls, wandering, forgetting to eat)

• Noticeable decline in hygiene, home maintenance, or bill payment

• Family conflict about care decisions

• Caregiver stress or burnout

• Recent hospitalization or health crisis

• Confusion about available care options and resources

If you're wondering whether you need help, that's often a sign that it's time to reach out. A conversation with us costs nothing and can provide clarity and direction.