Do you have a passion for helping aging adults and their families? Are you looking for a rewarding health and social services career? During Careers in Aging Week, take a closer look at the growing, in-demand field of Aging Life Care™ .
Be an Advocate…Be an Aging Life Care Manager™
by Linda Fodrini-Johnson, MA, MFT, CMC, Aging Life Care Association™ Member and Fellow of the Leadership Academy
Aging Life Care Professionals™, also known as Geriatric Care Managers are in demand with the Baby Boomers stepping into their retirement years at a fast pace. The increasing number of families struggling with aging-related challenges becomes an opportunity to move your career toward a private or group practice in order to meet the needs of many in need of an advocate with expertise.
This could be a career journey junction for you if your current position does not provide you with job satisfaction, or if your values and that of your employer are at a crossroad. For many of us, becoming an Aging Life Care Professional was a second career after working for years in the medical, government, or non-profit worlds. We wanted a longer term relationship with clients, and we wanted to make a difference in people’s lives.
It is a profession where you can set your own hours and limit the time and energy you want to expend on your career – many solo practitioners support and collaborate with one another to facilitate time away and a balanced life.
You do need experience with older adults and educational training that supports your expertise in this field. The Aging Life Care Association™, formerly known as the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers, has supported professionals in this field for 30 years. All members adhere to a Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, and are provided continuing education, support, and “know how” from colleagues around the country.
As a professional in the field since 1984, I can say this career has been a highlight of my life, and never a “job.” My personal path took me from a solo practice in 1989 to a large practice of over 20 care managers and we have added other services to our menu, as many of my colleagues across the country have done as well.
Aging Life Care Professionals are skilled in doing comprehensive assessments, writing up care plans for families, referring to solid, well-known resources, being aware of and referring clients to entitlements, as well as long-term advocacy and monitoring of older adults or younger disabled adults in any setting – from home to skilled nursing. You may have a specific interest, passion, or area of expertise that will become the focus of your practice – that special gift you bring can be what will set you apart.
You can blossom as an expert with the support you need from an organization that listens, supports, and provides learning opportunities in many formats. Join us if you want a career that matters.
ALCA is hosting its 32nd Annual Conference in Brooklyn, NY April 15 – 17, 2016. Nearly 400 Aging Life Care Professionals will meet to tackle the toughest issues related to aging today. To learn more about a career in Aging Life Care and about the Aging Life Care Association, visit aginglifecare.org.
About the author: Linda Fodrini-Johnson, MA, MFT, CMC, is the Founder and President of Eldercare Services in Walnut Creek, CA. She is also a partner of the VillagePlan. Linda is a Fellow of the Leadership Academy and past-president of the Aging Life Care Association. Linda has over 30 years experience working as a Care Manager. You can reach her at linda@EldercareAnswers.com, or connect with her via social media: Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this blog does not necessarily reflect official positions of the Aging Life Care Association™ and is provided “as is” without warranty. Always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.
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