They may also hesitate to bring up the subject because they feel they are being burdensome. The first step in long term care planning is to overcome the reluctance to talk about it. Professionals, such as social workers, discharge planners, or geriatric care managers are available to coordinate and direct a family meeting if this will be helpful for you and your relatives. There are a number of people who can help evaluate the long term care needs of an older adult or who can help locate resources which may provide the care necessary. Your parents physician is often a good person to start with because he or she can give a prognosis of any medical needs and describe what services should be considered.
Physicians can assess medical needs and give advice on the type and length of care necessary.
You may also seek the services of a geriatric assessment center. These groups are usually found in local hospitals, or community and county health centers. The physician, the geriatric assessment team, or a care manager should evaluate the medical requirements needed by your parent such as monitoring, medication management, home health assistance, or physical therapy. They can describe the possible changes in care that will be needed over time. They can also evaluate any mental conditions such as Alzheimer s Disease and the possibility of your parent requiring special care services at some point.