Consider Becoming an
Aging Life Care Expert
By Anne C . Sansevero
Born in Ireland , I was raised in a family of physicians and nurses . This naturally drew me to a career in healthcare , where I could make a difference in the lives of others . In the 1980s , I was recruited for a nursing opportunity in the United States and quickly fell in love with the energy and optimism that are part of this country ’ s cultural DNA . As a critical care nurse , I became very attuned to how stressful hospitalization can be for older , frail adults . Wanting to increase my impact on outcomes , I furthered my education with a master ’ s degree to become an adult-geriatric nurse practitioner ( AGNP ).
After 15 years as an AGNP in the hospital setting , I began to witness high readmission rates . The healthcare system was becoming increasingly fragmented , without resources or a focus on preventive care in the community . A social work colleague introduced me to what is now known as the Aging Life Care Association ® ( ALCA ). At my first meeting , I knew immediately that I had found my people and my purpose .
Discovering Mentors in ALCA
The association is dedicated to developing a deep and holistic understanding of the aging process . Aging Life Care Managers ®, sometimes referred to as geriatric care managers , serve as guides and navigators for older individuals in need . I was drawn to the entrepreneurial spirit , autonomy , and collaborative nature of the association , as well as its ability to bring peace of mind to seniors .
With the support of mentors in the association , I founded my own Aging Life Care™ management consulting practice , HealthSense ( www . HealthSense . org ). Now in its twentieth year , my HealthSense team and I help elders and their families navigate their unique aging journeys through care management assessment , strategic planning , and coordination so that they can live their best lives . We offer solutions for transitions of care , medication management , home safety , benefit navigation , and many other services . Memory issues , falls , and medication errors are common problems that require special attention . We work with seniors and families in crisis , as well as those who want to proactively plan their aging journey . The work is beyond rewarding and meaningful , and I have a deep appreciation for the wisdom and resilience I see in my older clients .
I am constantly inspired by my ALCA colleagues . As a national association , there are chapters throughout the country . The approximately 2,000 members encompass a diverse range of experiences and education . Some are nurses like me . Others have backgrounds in social work , occupational therapy , physical therapy , gerontology , or health administration , to name a few . Together , we are more than the sum of our parts , sharing our knowledge and zeal for empowering our clients and their families to age as they wish .
Aging Life Care Managers ® differ from case managers , who mostly work in hospitals or with insurance providers . Members of ALCA are primarily healthcare entrepreneurs who have their own con-
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