ABOUT ADVOCATE FOR ELDERS

 

ABOUT ADVOCATE FOR ELDERS

 

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OUR STORY

Advocate for Elders was founded by Jennifer Beach and is comprised of licensed social workers and nursing health care professionals with extensive experience in care management, dementias, and other chronic illnesses.   Jennifer and her colleagues pride themselves on offering compassionate care for seniors and expert support for families.

We provide services which are tailored to our client’s needs. Advocate for Elders works in partnership with you and your family to help you make informed decisions and deliver the best possible solutions for you and your loved one. Using a holistic approach, clients and their family are always at the center of all decisions and action plans. We work to ensure client values, preferences and resources are respected.

OUR TEAM

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JENNIFER BEACH, LSW, MA, C-SWCM

Jennifer has 25 years of experience in working with and advocating for older adults and their families. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University and a Master of Arts degree in Sociology from Cleveland State University. Jennifer started her career working over 15 years with older adults with developmental disabilities. After additional training she soon began Advocate For Elders.

Jennifer is a licensed, insured Social Worker and an Advanced Aging Life Care® Professional. Jennifer served as the as the Midwest Chapter President of Aging Life Care Association and served 7 years on the Board of Directors. In 2018, Jennifer was honored as the recipient of the ALCA Midwest Chapter Outstanding Member of the Year Award.

Jennifer is also a monthly contributor and author for Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond. IN 2022 she received first place in the Senior Issues Category at the North American Mature Publishers Association for her contribution to NE Ohio Boomer and Beyond.

"It is a privilege and honor to work with families to solve problems.  To be able to provide relief and reassurance to families as they work to the meet the challenges and provide the very best for their loved ones." —Jennifer Beach


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Mary Anne Rantala, R.N, Dementia Care Specialist

Mary Anne Rantala is a Register Nurse who brings over 25 years of medical and nursing experience working with older adults in a variety of settings. Mary Anne worked as a critical care nurse in 3 different local hospital over several decades. She worked as the Director of Nursing for 10 years in a successful, unique memory care facility specializing in Alzheimer’s and other Dementias.

Mary Anne brings her expertise, training, experience, and wisdom to families. Her unique education and training in dementia care allows her to assess and provide comprehensive recommendations, education and support to families. Mary Anne enjoys working individually with families as an advocate to ensure the best quality of life for their loved one, even in times of uncertainty families count of Mary Anne.

“Thank you for all your help. Mary Anne was amazing. Having the hands to hold during this time was truly a priceless comfort” —Angie, Lorain, Ohio


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Gerilynn Bryan, LSW and Case Manager

Gerilynn Bryan is a Licensed Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with older adults and their families. Geri is a graduate of Ursuline College and began her career as a community social worker with Salvation Army and then as the director of their Older Persons Program. She has worked with programs affiliated with a local Department of Aging for over 10 years.  Geri worked at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Brain Health for 15 years guiding and directing families of individuals diagnosed with dementia and cognitive challenges.  Geri is also certified in the Spiritual Art of Living and Dying.  Geri brings her extensive experience, knowledge, and expertise to families.  Her wisdom, caring nature and community connections offers expert guidance and a unique, dynamic approach.

“I see my work as a vocation/ministry that gives me great joy. I especially love to assist and work with families as they care for and support their loved ones.” —Gerilynn Bryan