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September 16, 2024
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Featuring Gail Arno of Elder Care Management, in conversation with Heather Chubb, Elder Law Attorney
When a loved one starts to need extra support—whether due to aging, illness, or disability—it can be overwhelming to navigate care options alone. That’s where geriatric care managers come in.
In a recent live conversation, elder law attorney Heather Chubb sat down with Gail Arno, a geriatric care manager with Elder Care Management, to talk about what these professionals do, who they help, and why their guidance is often essential during life’s most difficult transitions.
Heather Chubb: “Gail, let’s start at the beginning. What is the role of a geriatric care manager?”
Gail Arno: “We’re here to help families figure out what’s next. We’re not decision-makers, but we provide ideas, options, and real-world insight into how the system works. We’re a resource and a guide—especially when people don’t know what’s real, what’s available, or how to move forward.”
With nearly 30 years of experience in the field, Gail and her team have built deep expertise and vetted trusted resources, saving families time and stress.
Heather: “Who do you typically work with?”
Gail: “Our clients are all different. Some are solo agers without nearby family. Others have family out of the area, and we act as their ‘feet on the ground.’ Sometimes we’re the ones who get that 2 a.m. call, go to the ER, and coordinate with family over the phone. For local families, we give them the chance to be family again—we handle the logistics and care coordination.”
Gail emphasized that support can be flexible. “Some clients we see monthly. Others, three to four times a week. It all depends on their needs.”
Heather: “Do you only work with seniors?”
Gail: “We mainly focus on geriatric care, but we do help younger clients too—especially those with disabilities or medical conditions that mimic aging. We’re always learning and sharing resources as a team. If we don’t know the answer, we find it.”
Heather: “Until a few years ago, I’d never even heard of geriatric care managers. What led you to this work?”
Gail: “I studied psychology in undergrad and returned to grad school later in life to focus on geriatrics. I didn’t realize the complexity of aging care until I went through it myself. After working in Southern California—where this model is more established—I came back to Sacramento and said, ‘We need this here too.’ We started with just two of us and now have a team of ten.”
Gail: “We only take clients within 20–30 minutes of our team. That way, if we get a call in the middle of the night, we can get there quickly. It’s important to be local and hands-on. I’m not a caregiver—I manage and oversee care, make sure the right services are in place, and get clients what they need at the right price point.”
Heather: “What credentials should people look for in a care manager?”
Gail: “All of our team has at least a bachelor’s degree and 2,000+ hours of client experience. I’m a nationally certified care manager, an RCFE certified administrator, and a member of the Aging Life Care Association (ALCA)—a national organization that sets ethical standards. Our team includes nurses, social workers, and professionals from various fields.”
Heather: “That’s so important. Families need to know they’re in experienced hands.”
Heather: “If someone’s evaluating a care manager, what should they look for?”
Gail: “Listening skills. Communication. Energy and creativity. You have to be honest, but also adaptable—especially when you’re earning the trust of the client. Sometimes, just getting in the door takes strategy and patience. And collaboration is key. Our team works together constantly to solve problems.”
Heather: “If someone wants to work with a care manager, how do they begin?”
Gail: “We always start with a free phone call. Our first question is usually: Is your legal house in order? Because if it’s not, that can impact care decisions. If we’re the right fit, we’ll help build a care plan. If not, we’ll connect you to resources—legal help, caregiver lists, or even other ALCA care managers nationwide.”
Heather: “Gail, this has been so valuable. Your organization is phenomenal to work with.”
Gail: “Thank you, Heather. And we feel the same—when we refer clients to you, we know they’re in good hands.”
If you’re unsure what the next step should be for an aging parent—or for yourself—a geriatric care manager can make all the difference. Whether you’re local to Sacramento or need referrals in another state, help is available.
You can reach Elder Care Management by phone or visit the Aging Life Care Association at www.aginglifecare.org to find a credentialed care manager near you.
And if your legal house isn’t in order, Chubb Law Firm, PC is here to help. Call 916-241-9661 or visit www.chubblawfirm.com to schedule a Discovery Meeting.
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