Finding the right senior care can feel overwhelming. CareBridge Solutions helps families navigate senior living and care options with clarity, compassion, and trusted guidance. From assessing needs and reviewing budgets to identifying communities, scheduling tours, and supporting the transition, we help you make informed decisions with your loved one’s comfort, safety, and quality of life at the center.
Over 25 years of experience in the senior healthcare field.
This is not a time to be alone.
I will help you and your loved ones navigate what can be a confusing life change while offering unbiased advocacy, personalized solutions, and compassionate support.
About Me.
For over a decade I loved and cared for my mother, who in her early sixties, began suffering from dementia. In the beginning, my sisters and I quickly learned that this was something we could not manage on our own. We turned to the professionals at Rush University and Northwestern University for help. There we were given the tools needed to prepare us for this journey. It truly does take a village.
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In 2000, I was inspired to change my career and enter the field of aging. My goal has always been to use my experience to help others find the resources they need while facing the many challenges associated with aging.
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Additionally, I cherish my volunteer work at the Palatine Senior Center to be engaged with seniors for programs, fundraising, and the like.
My Process
Frequently Asked Questions
When is it time to start looking a for a senior living community?
If a loved one starts experiencing falls, frequents an emergency room, having difficulty managing medication, showing signs of memory loss or suffering from social isolation, it might be time to consider looking at options.
What is anticipated cost of assisted living in Illinois?
The estimated costs are $6800.00 and can more with levels of care added
How can we start the conversation with my parent to move?
Suggest that their home may not have all the safety features in place. A community setting is a great place to meet people and enjoy activities.
How are we to determine which communities are the best fit?
The first step is to determine the current and anticipated care needs including:
Assistance with bathing, dressing and toileting
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Medication management
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Meal assistance
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Memory issues (confusion, wandering, dementia stage)
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Fall risk or recent hospitalization
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How do I determine if a community provides good care?
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Observe the staff interactions with the resident.
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A good community feels welcoming and transparent.
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Thriving residents: Look at he the residents themselves.
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Are they clean, well groomed, and actively engaged in activities or conversations?
Once my family member moves in what is the communication like? How often do they provide updates and are care plans scheduled?
Typically the communication is with the director of resident services. They generally have care plans after 90 days. However, if there is a hospitalization they might have one sooner.
What financial options are there to pay for assisted living or memory care/ long term care?
These are some of the payment options:
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private funds
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long term care insurance
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Veterans Benefits - VA Aid and Attendance
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Life Insurance Conversions Life Settlement ( sell the policy for cash)
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Medicaid typically applies to skilled or long term care facilities
Is there any kind of trial period for my loved one to see if the community is a good fit?
Most assisted living communities offer a "respite stay". This will give someone an opportunity to stay there typically for 30 days to get a feel for the community.
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What is the typical contract for an assisted living and are deposits refundable?
A contract is usually for 12 months. In the event you wish to move your loved one before the end of the contract, they ask for a 60 day notice. Deposits are refundable up until the resident moves in.
What is resident's health changes significantly do they have to move?
A resident can usually age in place, and additional providers can be brought in such as Palliative Care or hospice.
Why Choose a Senior Care Advisor?
Expert guidance and personalized assessment:
Advisors have specialized knowledge of senior care options and help evaluate a senior’s specific care requirements, lifestyle, and financial situation to provide personalized recommendations.
Time and stress reduction:
They handle time-consuming tasks like researching communities, coordinating tours, and freeing up family members to focus on their loved one.
Emotional support and advocacy:
Advisors act as an unbiased, experienced partner to help navigate difficult conversations and complex family dynamics, ensuring the senior’s needs and dignity are prioritized.
Financial guidance:
They can help identify communities that are both high-quality and financially sustainable for the family’s budget.
Ongoing support:
Provide post-placement follow-up to ensure the senior is a good fit and to help address any concerns that may arise.
How I Can Help Families Like Yours?
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​As a professional, I am a dedicated to supporting aging adults. With my knowledge and expertise, I am able to identify tailored solutions that address seniors’ unique needs.
As a senior advisor, I adhere to a strict code of professional responsibility, which requires me to prioritize the needs and well-being of the seniors I serve. If you’re looking for a trusted expert who understands the challenges of aging and is committed to acting in your best interest, reach out to me today.
Working with you as an advocate for your loved one, I can provide you with the confidence and support you need.
Testimonials
When our family needed help finding the right care for my dad, we didn’t know where to start. Gail Niksic is a true lifeline. She listens, asks thoughtful questions, and she treated our situation with compassion and respect.
What stood out most was how much she genuinely cares—not just about finding a placement, but about finding resources and connecting us with the right people. This is more than a business for Gail, it’s a calling. I highly recommend Carebridge Solutions, LLC. Working with Gail Niksic is a no brainer for families facing this difficult and emotional decision for their loved ones.
I sincerely recommend Gail Niksic for anyone seeking compassionate guidance in finding care for aging loved ones. She helped my family navigate some of the most difficult decisions: finding the right hospice for my father-in-law and a supportive community for my mother-in-law, who battled dementia. Gail’s empathy, patience and genuine care for both patients and families are extraordinary. Over the 15 years I have known Gail, I have referred her to numerous friends and family members knowing they will be in the best hands.
Susan Scatchell
The best news I've heard in our industry in a LONG TIME!
So excited and happy that Gail decided to start her own business as an independent senior care advisor. It's difficult to investigate and secure services with someone who will professionally guide you, LISTEN to your needs and concerns, align with your personal goals, and be there with you every step of the way.
I have known Gail personally and professionally for about 20 years. We both lost our mothers and had to navigate through some tough patches in finding resources and the challenges associated with an aging, ill parent. Because of our tight-knit circle of trusted colleagues, we learned to lean on each other for support and guidance. It does take a village!!!
I highly recommend Gail and am so excited about the launch of Carebridge Solutions. Gail is the ultimate professional, and any family would be greatly served to work with her. She is well-respected in the Chicagoland and surrounding communities. The outpouring of support and business relationships she has developed over the years is outstanding and a credit to her integrity and commitment.