Hospitals- Do not Be Afraid- to ask questions

People that have not had aging relatives in and out of the hospital often look at me and even say- how can you make a living as a geriatric case manager?
Those who have had relatives in poor health; quickly jump up and tell " horror" stories from hospital experiences that left the family confused and the relative in worse health.
I receive several calls a month from families with relatives in the hospital; often asking questions they should ask the medical team. Your loved ones need you to be their advocate, you need to feel comfortable with discharge plans.


Become and advocate for yourself and your loved one. Ask questions- do not be intimidated by the white coats. If you do not feel comfortable asking questions and clarifying health issues then phone friend. Those who do not understand the changes in medications, the various follow up or the disorders themselves are at much greater risk for re hospitalization.

Here are a few tips:

*Acknowledge and assert yourself as a crucial part of the health care team. Communicate openly and regularly with the health care team so that it's aware of any changes in your family member's status

*Include your family member in the decision making as much as possible. Keep in mind that decision-making ability varies from person to person. Your loved one may not be able to make financial decisions anymore, but he might still be able to articulate his health care preferences.

*Keep a written record of key contacts, appointments, health care information, and the outcome of each doctor's appointment.

* If you must travel to aid in your loved ones care consider a geriatric care manager.
http://www.scmanagementar.com/ will help you find care manager near your loved one.

VA Aid and Attendance

Those who served in the military; even three months during any time of war ( even if they never left the US) are entitled to VA aid and Attendance. This is an often overlooked program that can allow an elder to remain in the home with a paid caregiver. The program also could help pay for assisted living care.

The forms are complicated and approval takes several months. One website I found helpful is:

www.veteranaid.org/apply.php. Another website ( the official VA website): http://www.vba.va.gov/ .

They do not provide detailed instructions on the VA website.



Consider these questions for potential applicants:

Are they home bound?

Does this person need help for basic daily activities? Activities include bathing, cooking, dressing, getting to appointments, taking medications in a timely manner, paying bills.

Has the family physician mentioned that the family should look into nursing care or assisted living?

Is income under $15,000 per year if widowed/single?

Keep in mind that the VA has less strict guidelines for income and assets than state programs, so those who may have been turned down for Medicaid may very well be able to receive benefits.

This program is invaluable to those needing help at home.