Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
for Families Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
for Families
As people age they may be faced with the loss of physical health, spouse, friends, home, and other support systems. As a result, they may feel sad, angry, lonely, or may do things out out of character. Often a person who has been happy and healthy his or her whole life may become depressed or anxious. It is very important to realize that these are not normal aspects of growing older, and that with treatment the quality of life can often be improved. Senior Life is also available to younger residents who may be struggling with serious or chronic illness.
Many individuals suffering with dementia can benefit from help in all stages of their disease. For example, in the early stages, individuals who are aware of changes in their memory can be quite frightened or sad, and could benefit from "talk therapy." In later stages of dementia, our staff can be helpful to families and facility caretakers in developing plans to assist with challenging and/or upsetting behaviors. Depression and dementia often exist side by side, and treating depression can often help the individual to cope with their losses and function to the best of their abilities.
The need for our services may be identified through facility staff, physicians, family members, or the resident him/herself. We must have an order from the primary doctor for services (if the person resides in a nursing facility), as well as a signed consent form that gives us permission to talk with the individual. You may be asked to sign the consent form for your family member, if you are his or her legal guardian or power of attorney. Our office will verify the insurance coverage for our services, and then will contact the clinical staff member assigned to the facility. We may also contact family members for more information regarding the individual, as family members can inform us of relevant personal history and give us a more complete picture of the individual's life.
Of course, costs are always a concern, especially for older adults with limited resources. We are sensitive to that concern. The services we provide to residents are covered under Medicare Part B and many other insurance plans. There is sometimes a small co-payment that is not covered (except for those residents who have Medicaid and therefore no other obligation). If the co-payment is a financial hardship, please contact our office.
Senior Life Consultants, Inc. is a group of mental health professionals that includes Psychologists and Licensed Independent Social Workers. Our staff has a special commitment to the older adult population. We come to the facility each week to provide counseling and other mental health services to residents.
You are welcome to call Senior Life Consultants, Inc. with questions or concerns at any time. Our phone number is (614) 792-1108 (in Columbus) or 1-800-693-8087. Please contact your facility social worker, resident services coordinator, or a nurse to start services.
Service Referrals Billing FAQ's