Credentials and Certifications

Sarah is certified through Mom’s House, a training organization with a mission of “empowering professionals to help families transition into senior care with dignity.” However, she also brings in expertise from previous work roles as a mediator and non-profit administrator.

Sarah understands that moving later in life can be emotionally challenging. Her work is focused on reducing the stress experienced by family caregivers. Like every senior transition specialist, she is committed to supporting older adults and their families through the transition to an appropriate living arrangement while preserving older adults’ dignity, autonomy, and quality of life.

A circular badge with blue, red, and light blue colors. The outer edge is scalloped. The text reads 'SE TRANSITION SPECIALIST' and 'MOM'S HOUSE' around the circle, with stars separating the phrases. The center features an outline of a house with a heart inside it.

What Can I Expect From a Certified Senior Transition Specialist?

The certification process ensures that every senior transition specialist understands their responsibilities towards families:

1. Client and Family Consultation

  • Conduct initial consultations with older adults and family members to understand their needs, preferences, concerns, budget, and timeline.

  • Help families identify appropriate senior living options based on care requirements, location, affordability, lifestyle preferences, and availability.

  • Provide compassionate support to families experiencing uncertainty, caregiver burnout, family disagreements, or difficulty making placement decisions.

2. Senior Living Research and Placement Coordination

  • Research and identify suitable senior living communities and care providers to develop an individualized transition plan.

  • Coordinate tours, consultations, assessments, and communications with prospective communities and service providers.

  • Help families compare options, understand costs and contractual considerations, and prepare questions for providers.

3. Planning and Transition Management

  • Coordinate the practical aspects of relocation, including downsizing, organizing belongings, packing, moving services, and preparing the new residence.

  • Develop realistic timelines and task lists to ensure transitions are organized, safe, and as minimally disruptive as possible.

  • Coordinate communication among family members, care providers, and senior living staff before, during, and after a move.

4. Client Advocacy and Ongoing Support

  • Advocate for client preferences, dignity, safety, and informed decision-making throughout the transition process.

  • Identify potential concerns related to accessibility, fall risks, social isolation, cognitive changes, and caregiver capacity, referring clients to qualified professionals when needed.

  • Connect families with appropriate healthcare, legal, financial, social service, and community resources.

6. Documentation and Administration

  • Maintain accurate client records, assessment notes, transition plans, referrals, and follow-up documentation.

  • Follow organizational policies regarding privacy, documentation, ethical conduct, and conflicts of interest.

  • Provide regular updates to management regarding client needs, service delivery, and opportunities to improve processes.