How to Become a Geriatric Care Manager

America is aging. Information from the U.S. Census Bureau suggests that in 2020 nearly 17% (about one-sixth) of the American population was over 65.¹ By 2060, experts estimate that almost 25% of Americans will be senior citizens.² In real terms, that's a projected rise from 49 million over-65s in 2016 to 95 million in 2060², which is more than the current population of Germany or Turkey.³

As the aging population increases, so does the need for professionals trained to care for and assist the elderly.⁴ A geriatric care manager is one such professional, as they are typically a licensed nurse or social worker specially qualified in healthcare for older adults.⁴ The job largely involves working with seniors and their families to identify needs, find necessary services and develop care plans. It can be a challenging role, involving difficult decisions regarding long-term care requirements and life changes. It can also, however, be a very rewarding career, helping vulnerable people through a difficult time in life.

This post explores how to become a geriatric care manager, from necessary qualifications to helpful experience and career challenges to consider.

Understanding the Role of a Geriatric Care Manager

A large component of the work of geriatric care managers is essentially geriatric social work. This requires the ability to make comprehensive assessments of an individual's needs, turn the findings into a practical care plan and help families and caregivers get access to the resources they may need. Along the way, you can expect to be an advocate for your patients' needs, as well as a counselor, helping with the emotional stressors and anxieties that can arise for seniors and their families.⁵

Some geriatric care managers work in private practice; others are attached to healthcare facilities or community organizations. All are devoted to improving the quality of life and well-being of their patients to the best of their abilities.

Educational Requirements

The first step toward a career in geriatric care management is having the right qualifications. It is a specialized field, requiring an expert’s knowledge and training. At minimum, most employers expect candidates to have earned a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as social work, nursing or gerontology.⁶ A master's degree in a field such as social work, public health or nursing is often a requirement for more senior roles.⁶

Advanced degree programs often provide the opportunity to gain focused knowledge and experience through specialized coursework or certifications. For example, you can earn Gerontology and Palliative Care Certification as part of the online Master of Social Work program at Yeshiva University.

Certifications and Licensing

In some states, becoming a geriatric social worker or care manager requires compliance with licensing regulations.⁷ These requirements vary from state to state.

Licensing is one way of maintaining the standards of the profession, but getting specialized certification can also enhance your professional recognition and credibility. You can obtain qualifications such as the Certified Geriatric Care Manager (CGCM) designation from independent certification agencies.⁸

Gaining Practical Experience

Internships, volunteer work or entry-level roles can be a significant boost to your career in geriatric care management. They help you acquire practical experience and build expertise in necessary areas such as care planning. Look for roles in healthcare, social services or eldercare settings.⁶

Essential Skills for Geriatric Care Managers

Ultimately, geriatric care managers need to combine excellent interpersonal and organizational skills with specialized knowledge of the medical, psychological and social challenges facing people as they age.⁶ You'll need to demonstrate empathy and communicate well to help resolve conflict and address patient and caregiver anxieties. Further, in order to coordinate services and design and carry out care plans effectively, you’ll need top-tier management skills.

Building a Career as a Geriatric Care Manager

As you plan and develop a career in geriatric care management, you will have to consider where you want to work. Some geriatric care managers work in private practice, while others have jobs at an institution such as a hospital, home care agency or assisted living facility.⁹ Remember that the best setting for you may change as your career develops.

Networking is also important for professional development. Consider joining professional groups that focus on geriatric care, such as the Aging Life Care Association.¹⁰

Finally, it will be important to market your services. This especially applies if you work in private practice, as you may need to assess the competitive landscape and know where your clients come from, and then decide whether to appeal directly to families in need or to healthcare providers and institutions.¹¹

Challenges and Considerations

While a career in geriatric care management can be deeply rewarding, it’s important to recognize and prepare for the challenges that come with the role. There is an emotional demand that comes with working with aging clients. Working with older adults often means supporting individuals through health declines and end-of-life planning, situations that require both compassion and resilience. Another challenge comes from navigating family dynamics. It’s increasingly common for multiple family members to be directly involved in caregiving, each with their own perspectives, concerns, and expectations. As a geriatric care professional, you may find yourself mediating between competing interests, requiring strong communication and conflict resolution skills.¹² In addition, the healthcare industry is one with constant shifting regulations and resources, requiring ongoing on-the-job education and adaptation.

Beyond interpersonal challenges, the healthcare field itself is constantly evolving. Regulations, insurance policies, and available resources frequently shift, making adaptability and a commitment to ongoing education essential. Staying current with new laws and best practices ensures you can advocate effectively for your clients and provide the highest level of care.

Take Your Next Step Toward a Career in Geriatric Care Management

If you want a career that can make a difference in peoples’ lives, geriatric care management has excellent prospects for growth. The online Master of Social Work program through the Wurzweiler School of Social Work can provide you with the knowledge and experience you need. Our program combines an engaging curriculum, including specialized modules and certificates, with hands-on practicum experience with our top-tier partners in the healthcare industry. Look over our admission requirements online today. When you're ready, schedule an appointment with one of our admissions outreach advisors to discuss your next steps.