Definitely! As a Dementia Care Navigator certified through the Alzheimer’s Association, I can help you understand what a dementia diagnosis means, what questions to ask the doctor, what resources may be available, and what steps to consider next. Together we will craft an individualized care plan suited specifically to the needs of you and your loved one, and I will be with you every step of the way.

Yes. I can help you look at changes in daily functioning, safety concerns, and available support options for a wide range of diagnoses. While I do not diagnose or provide medical treatment, I can help you stay on top of changes in your loved ones’ condition, prepare questions for healthcare providers, and explore care options. If your loved one needs more care at home, I can help you find in-home care options in your area. Or, if they are in need of more care and you are considering placing them in a facility, I can help you find one that fits your loved ones’ needs.

Yes, I can help organize information and questions for the appointment ahead of time so you can more easily accomplish your goals. Afterward, I can help you understand what was discussed and identify possible next steps. I also offer accompaniment services, and can attend your doctor’s appointments with you to take notes and empower you to advocate for yourself.

Absolutely. I can connect you with resources in your area for a wide variety of needs, including: in-home care, respite care, support groups, meal delivery, companion services, transportation options, caregiver education and more.

Definitely. Facility placement can feel overwhelming, and I can help ease the burden by researching and organizing the best options for you or your loved one. I can help you understand the different types of facilities, prepare for tours, compare options and more. I will be there to help ease the transition before, during and after the move. I do not receive any kind of referral bonus from facilities, so you can trust that any facility options I share with you are in the best interest of you or your loved one.

Absolutely. The healthcare system is complex and often overwhelming. I am there to help you every step of the way; as a listening ear, a guiding hand, and someone to lean on when things are difficult. We can start by talking through what is happening, what feels most urgent, and what kind of support would help things feel more manageable.

Both! I can help patients navigating their own care and caregivers navigating care for someone else.

No. Earnest Advocacy provides patient advocacy, care coordination, and Dementia Care Navigation services. This means I provide education, organization, preparation, resource guidance and support so you can make informed decisions with the proper professionals.

Generally, yes. With your written permission, I can often communicate with providers, help prepare questions, take notes, organize information, and support you in conversations. This is often subject to the limitations and preferences of specific healthcare professionals.

Patient advocacy and care coordination services begin with a free 30-minute consultation. Consultations can take place by phone, video call, or in person for those local to the San Diego County area.

Before the consultation, I will send a questionnaire for you to complete. This helps me better understand your situation, concerns, and goals so we can make the most of our time together.

During the consultation, we will discuss your current challenges, identify areas where support may be helpful, and talk about how Earnest Advocacy may be able to assist you. If you decide to move forward with services, I will send over service agreements outlining how we will work together.

Once agreements are completed, we will begin addressing your most immediate needs and priorities. Services are individualized and flexible, meaning support can evolve over time as new needs, concerns, or challenges arise.

Dementia Care Navigation services begin with scheduling an initial consultation. Prior to the consultation, I will send a questionnaire to be completed, usually by the caregiver. This helps me better understand your concerns, current challenges, care needs, and goals so we can make the most of our time together.

After the consultation, I will send over service agreements outlining what our working relationship will look like and how services will be provided. Once agreements are completed, we will schedule a comprehensive assessment.

The assessment is typically conducted in person and focuses on getting to know both the person living with dementia and their care partner. We will discuss areas such as daily functioning, safety concerns, routines, medical and support needs, current challenges, caregiving stressors, personal preferences, and goals of care.

This assessment allows me to create an individualized, person-centered Care Plan tailored to the unique needs, strengths, wishes, and circumstances of the individual and their caregiver. Recommendations may include education, resources, home safety considerations, caregiver support strategies, care coordination ideas, and planning for future needs as dementia progresses.

I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. I also completed training through the Alzheimer’s Association to become a Certified Dementia Care Navigator. I am also a caregiver for a loved one with dementia, so I know firsthand the challenges of caregiving, as well as navigating the complex and overwhelming healthcare system. I have personally experienced the need for better patient advocacy, and strive to provide that for families going through difficult times.