Choosing the best care option for your loved one is quite possibly the most difficult decision you’ll ever have to make.
I can help.
Choosing the best care option for your loved one is quite possibly the most difficult decision you’ll ever have to make.
I can help.
Get resources to help you navigate assisted living, independent living, skilled nursing care, hospice care, and more.
Time constrained and need to learn about the best care options quickly in order to make an informed decision
How I can help:
I can save you time and money. Since I have experience with various care facilities and senior care resources in the area, I can make recommendations regarding which options you should consider first.
In need of information and advice on which questions you should ask when considering care options
How I can help:
I offer insight and expert advice for asking questions that will lead to the best decisions based on your family’s unique situation. I’m also available to visit and screen facilities with you as well as help with other arrangements.
Feeling overwhelmed and anxious about the many options and the tough decisions you have to make
How I can help:
I understand how stressful it can be finding the best care for your loved one. As a chaplain working in the world of long term/assisted living and hospice care, I’ve navigated and comforted families through many challenging situations and difficult decisions.
Unsure of how to navigate difficult conversations with family members about care for a loved one
How I can help:
I can help guide you through difficult conversations. I’m available to meet with all family members as a mediator in order to arrive at the best outcome for your loved one and your family.
Sourcing and screening of care facilities for loved ones who need long term care, assisted living care, skilled nursing care, or hospice.
Sourcing and guiding your decision about in-home care. I offer guidance on what to ask, what to expect, and how to transition to in-home care.
Mediation/Counseling with family members; compassionate yet pragmatic guidance.
Guidance on when and how to apply for V-A benefits, Medicare or Medicaid, or other benefits
Stage Planning Guidance, with a forward-thinking approach and advising on when to apply for services or request needed documents. (e.g., Medical or financial power of attorney Dr’s orders)
Guidance on which legal documents are a priority, such as Advanced Directives/Living Wills, or D.N.R. orders
Helping patients acclimate to a new facility. By serving as an additional point of continuity I can help your loved transition to a new environment more easily
Finding a support group to help you and your family through this challenging time
Hospice Care Guidance, increasing understanding of what Hospice care means, how it works, whether or not your loved one qualifies, how to apply, and how to talk about it with your loved one and family members
Bereavement Counseling. Help reducing physical and emotional distress associated with a terminal illness or death of a loved one
Making end of life or funeral arrangements, and finding resources that fit your family’s budget and needs, and honor your loved one’s wishes.
You have a difficult choice ahead of you. You need information and advice to make the best decision for your loved one’s future and guidance on how to choose the right long term, assisted living, skilled nursing, or hospice care. This is an overwhelming process and it may be difficult to know who to trust. You need an independent advocate whose only concern is helping you find the best care and support for your loved one.
As an independent consultant I don’t accept referral fees or compensation of any kind from care facilities or service providers. My recommendations are based solely on the unique needs of your loved one and family.
Stefanie Shumaker, MDiv
Stefanie has a Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary with an emphasis in counseling and practical theology. Stefanie has worked specifically in the area of senior care for the last seven years as a hospice chaplain for several different companies in the Salt Lake valley which has given her first-hand experience with facilities, home health and hospice care, patient care management, patient and family transitions, family mediation, funeral planning and Alzheimer’s education. Stefanie grew up around the elderly, tagging along with her mom who delivered Meals on Wheels and worked as a chaplain. Years after grieving the death of her mom, Stefanie found her way to this vocation through a love for helping people through grief and difficult circumstances.
Stefanie’s experience within the system of senior care has led her to realize families need guidance from someone who can offer unbiased recommendations regarding the needs and care of their loved ones. Stefanie continues to work as a chaplain because she loves her patients, and it allows her to stay current on senior care needs and resources. She belongs to the Utah Gerontological Society and the Aging Life Care Association. You will find Stefanie on the trails and in the mountains in her free time.
How it works:
During our 2 hour consultation (in person or video conference) we will discuss your loved one’s unique situation and your family’s needs and challenges.
Based on the consultation, I will prepare a summary which will include my initial recommendations regarding your next steps.
I will send you this written summary and we can review it in a brief 15 minute phone call where I can answer any additional questions you may have.
Cost: 300.00
To get started, please enter your information below and we’ll contact you to schedule a time and details for the consultation.