COPE Eldercare was established by Laurie Ray in an effort to bring compassionate geriatric care management services to seniors and their families. With over 10 years experience in the field of Social Work Laurie’s background includes extensive work in hospice care both locally and in the northeast, where she provided end of life support to patients of all ages in a variety of settings. She then spent several years as the Social Worker for Independent Living at a continuing care retirement community in Chapel Hill. As an active advocate, she was able to provide the support and resources necessary for the residents to remain independent in their homes for as long as possible while not sacrificing their safety and quality of life. Laurie assisted these seniors and their families in determining when the time had come for a variety of lifestyle changes such as no longer driving, medication management, companionship, or discussing the need for a more supportive environment that may include in-home help, assisted living, or skilled nursing home care. With sensitivity Laurie continued to support the residents while they were adapting to new physical, cognitive, or environmental changes.

Laurie has provided Caregiver and Bereavement support groups as well as a variety of presentations on topics such as Advance Care Planning, Caregiving, Advance Directives, End of Life Care, and a series of educational inservices for staff on Death and Dying. Laurie is an Eden Alternative Associate and has implemented and coordinated the inclusion of plants, children, and animals into the lives of residents of a nursing home. She has also provided Animal-Assisted Activities/Therapy in hospitals, adult day care, and several nursing home setings. Laurie’s educational background includes undergraduate degrees in Business Management, Social Work, and a Masters in Social Work from Boston University. She is recognized by the Social Work Certification and Licensure Board of North Carolina as a Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW).

With warmth and compassion Laurie is very willing to provide the same guidance, care, and case management services to elders and their families in our local community.

Professional Associations:
National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers
National Association of Social Workers
American Society on Aging
American Geriatrics Society
Delta Society