Long distance care giving is a way of life. It is not unusual for family members to be scattered across the country, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t care.
Distance care giving is hard work. Whether you live next door or a continent away you will always be the “go-to” person. It will take more than an infrequent visit to get a handle on how things are going at home. Visit when you can, preferably not during a holiday, so that you can assess the quality of their lives on a day to day basis. Introduce yourself to the people who make up their support system: physician, neighbors, members of the clergy, friends, and legal advisors all play an important role. Friends and neighbors care, but it puts them in an uncomfortable position if they don’t have someone to express their concerns to.
Consider hiring a geriatric care manager to do a professional assessment and set up care plan. Learn how to utilize community resources such as your Area Agency on Aging. There are professional caregivers who can perform the tasks that you are unable to take on; especially from a distance. Home Care agencies can provide assistance with housekeeping, medication reminders, meal preparation and transportation.
Modern technology can monitor many aspects of care, but it is only a tool. The key ingredient in the equation will always be you. The best way to keep abreast of the situation is to keep in touch.
- Make sure they have senior friendly phones and call frequently.
- Video calls give an additional perspective. Skype, iPads and webcams make face to face communication possible.
- Make sure they wear an alarm pendant, so that falls or home accidents can be detected quickly.
- · Have a friend, a neighbor or a volunteer call or check in with them once a day.
- · Use electronic medication reminders.
- · Set up shopping or meal delivery services.
- · Explore the world of smart home sensors.
People take care of each other; this is who we are, but they shouldnt be expected to do it alone.
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