AgeSmart: Care Coordination No Matter Where You Call Home

Brandi Friday, a Care Coordinator, is dedicated to developing trusted, long-term relationships with AgeSmart members. From home safety assessments to annual care plans, Friday works to help AgeSmart members live well in their homes.

“One of the main benefits of care coordination is we follow a member through their entire lifetime. In addition to being available to members as needed, we check in with them over the phone quarterly and with an in-home visit every year. So really we work to predict what future needs might come up and we are proactive in anticipating those needs.”

AgeSmart with LifeSpire is available in Lynchburg. This innovative program supports healthy, independent adults aged 55 and over who wish to remain in their homes while planning ahead for future care.

By providing access to comprehensive care coordination, asset protection, and long-term care services, AgeSmart ensures peace of mind for members and their families. This program empowers individuals to maintain their independence while having a trusted plan for future care needs.

“When LifeSpire decided to start AgeSmart seven years ago, it was for people that wanted to stay at home and age in place,” AgeSmart Executive Director Tammy Huffman said. “We offer care coordination, pay for care as you need it, and may help you stay well longer through program activities and interventions.”

Established in 2018 as Lakewood at Home, AgeSmart was the first program of its kind in the Richmond area. Recognizing the growing desire among seniors to remain in their homes, LifeSpire of Virginia expanded this innovative continuing care at home program across the Commonwealth. AgeSmart continues to

evolve, providing members with the resources and support needed to age confidently at home. Friday said a home safety assessment provides peace of mind to members. “One of the big things that we offer to our members is a home safety assessment that’s conducted by a licensed physical therapists. That helps us determine how safe they are to live in their home currently and how safe they are to live in their home in the future,” Friday said.

Once a year, AgeSmart conducts an annual care plan for each member.

“We go out to members homes and really get an in-depth look at how they’re doing physically and mentally, and how their home is providing a safe environment for them,” Friday said.

AgeSmart helps relieve burdens for members and their families by vetting trusted home care providers. “Our care coordinators handle scheduling and coordination, taking that responsibility off the member and their loved ones. For those without nearby family or adult children, this support can be especially valuable. We can also assist with filing long-term care insurance claims, removing another layer of complexity,” Friday said.

Huffman said Age Smart program brings caregivers to you in your home, wherever that home is.

“If you ever need more care than what we can provide in your home, you may choose to move to a LifeSpire community, such as The Summit, or another community of your choice, where healthcare, assisted living, or memory support services are available. This gives people peace of mind because they know they have a plan — to stay well at home, protect their assets, and access quality care if and when it’s needed,” she said.

“Our members are very social, they’re very active and they are still living amazing lives. I just find them very inspiring.”

AgeSmart can work alongside long-term care insurance for those who have a policy, while also supporting members who do not.

“With long-term care insurance, you typically must need assistance with two to three Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) before benefits can be used. With AgeSmart, care can begin earlier — often when assistance with just one activity is needed. Members also have the benefit of working with the same dedicated care coordinator over time. With traditional long-term care insurance claims, you may speak with a different representative each time you call,” Friday said.

Friday says one of the most rewarding parts of her role is developing long-term relationships with members. “Over the years, we really get to know our members well, and they come to know and trust us. When they pick up the phone, they know they’re reaching the same person,” she said. “My favorite part of being a care coordinator is getting to know the members.”

The program is now offered in the Lynchburg region. For more information about AgeSmart, call The Summit marketing team at 434.333.2138.