Our Company
"My Unique Approach"
Over the years I have developed expertise in working with individuals who
are facing some of the most challenging times in their lives. I offer a client-centered,
personalized service that empowers the individual and supports surrounding
loved ones. Traditionally and currently the prevalent approach to services
for the elderly uses a medical model and focuses on the problems associated
with the physical and mental decline of an aging person. Decisions made without
involving the elder have often led to resistance because of feelings of helplessness,
confusion, and vulnerability. The focus in a traditional model focuses on what
to do for or about an elderly person, not what to do to support their choices
and to help them maintain or improve the highest possible quality of life.
Before becoming a Geriatric Care Manager, I worked for many years as a Social
Worker and Administrator, serving the needs of adults who are medically fragile
and/or have developmental and physical disabilities. I earned my Masters in
Social Work at Syracuse University and began working with individuals with
special needs in the mid Seventies. I believe in supporting the wishes of the
elder and the family regarding residential choices and I recommend the services
that assist the elder to reside in the least restrictive setting. The residential
choice must be a safe environment that fosters the highest level of autonomy
and independence for that person and offers services and enhancements for a
dignified life.
I pride myself in being an advocate for my clients to ensure that a high
quality of lifestyle is achieved and maintained. I am acutely aware of
the excellent
resources in our surrounding communities and believe strongly in a collaborative
approach to offering solutions to seniors and their families. I believe
that every person has the right to live life to its fullest and it is my privilege
to assess each person and identify and implement or monitor services that
enhance that individual’s life. I develop trust and comfort in my
working relationships and I offer excellent solutions. Above all, my approach
is
respectful of the
elder and his or her wishes, as expressed personally or through the voice
of a loved one.