With Special Care
By Post Staff
Seniors often need more acute and one-on-one attention, and Anise J. Matteson is working to meet those needs in the African-American community. She's a consultant with Matteson Elder Care Services.
"My job is challenging because I'm meeting the needs of non-medical caregivers and creating an awareness of how the home environment affects the health of older adults," Matteson said. Her marketing strategies include targeting caregiver adult children and elderly living at-home or in transition.
She also works to keep important records in order for seniors.
"Medical Record Technology (classes) provided me an opportunity to train for a medical career without years of intensive studying," she said. "I was not sure about committing to a lifetime career, and I could not justify spending my parents' money. I was thinking of owning a nursing home, and so I enrolled in a Health Service Administration program."
A native of San Francisco, Matteson earned an Associate in Science degree with a Certificate of Proficiency in Medical Record Technology from City College of San Francisco. She's now studying for a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Service Administration from St. Mary's College Extended Education.
Matteson has emerged as a resource for non-medical caregivers and elders seeking adult education programs.
Matteson has just written a book entitled "My Diary: Starter Kit." She organizes seminars and training sessions.
"My book is an organizational tool," she said. "I came up with the idea after seeing first-hand how the elderly maintain records of important information. It's also designed to help non-medical persons better participate in the care of their loved ones and for transition management."
She has also written "Kitchen Secrets for the Hurried Caregiver," a reference book for family caregivers who need help with easy-to-prepare meals, kitchen aids, and holiday cooking.
She said there has been some improvement in nursing homes" They now have special units adressing the needs of the elderly and families who need help with Alzheimer's, or respite care. There are also special care groups providing independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing," she said.
Editior's Note: Matteson can be contacted at Matteson Elder Care Services, call 415-333-8265 or email her at mattesonecs@yahoo.com.
San Francisco Post, November 22-28, 2006. p. 5.
Copyright 2006. THE POST. All rights reserved.
