Geriatric Care Managers – GCM’s are health and human services specialists who help families care for older relatives, while encouraging as much independence as possible. Geriatric Care Managers may be trained in any of a number of fields related to long-term care, including, but not limited to, nursing, gerontology, social work, or psychology, with a specialized focus on issues related to aging and elder care. The GCM acts as a guide and advocate -- identifying problems and offering solutions, from assessment of an aging parent's needs to addressing the life change of a family affected by Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinsons or other symptoms of dementia. GCM’s typically assist families in developing a specific plan of care for an aging family member, based on their individual needs.