As our parents age, it's natural to want to provide them with the care and support they need. However, for some of us, living far away from our aging parents can present challenges when it comes to providing that care. If you live more than an hour’s drive away from the elderly parent or relative you’re caring for, then you are a long-distance caregiver. This can obviously pose some challenges that local caregivers do not have to worry about. Long-distance caregiving requires a different approach, but there are still many ways to support and assist your aging parents from afar. Here are some tips for adult children who are long-distance caregivers.
Coordinate Local Support
If your aging parent lives far away, creating a strong support system where they reside is ideal. Research local healthcare providers, transportation options, and
community resources. Connect with the assisted living facility staff members and other residents to establish a network of support. By coordinating local assistance, you can provide your loved one with peace of mind and ensure their needs are met.
Plan Visits Ahead of Time
While it may not be possible to visit your aging parents every week or month, try to plan regular visits throughout the year. These visits can provide you with an opportunity to assess their well-being, address any immediate needs, and spend quality time with them. Consider coordinating with other family members to ensure that someone is regularly checking in on your parents in between your visits.
Maximize Your Visits
Every moment together counts when you’re a long-distance caregiver. Before your next planned visit, contact your loved one and see if there’s anything specific they’d like to do during it. If necessary, check in with their primary caregiver to see if they have any pressing needs. Doing so can help you better plan your visit’s itinerary, pointing out what should take priority and what can be placed on the back burner for now. No matter what your loved one wants or needs to do, be sure to just spend time with them. If you can, prioritize recreational activities such as watching movies, playing games, listening to music, or taking a ride. These are the memories both of you will be able to hold onto and cherish when you’re far away from each other.
Stay Connected Through Technology
When you don’t live close to the person you’re caring for, it takes a little extra effort to make sure you’re checking in often enough and thoroughly enough. Make a list of important phone numbers and email addresses for easy access and be sure to keep it updated. It may also be a good idea to create a shared calendar or app, so everyone involved in caregiving can access it and stay on the same page. If you are able to and have permission to do so, attend as many telehealth visits with your loved one as you can, and be sure to participate in them and advocate for your loved one. If the person you’re caring for is able and willing, teach them how to use the texting and video calling features on their smartphone, help them set up online accounts to make it easier to keep in touch, and make sure they understand how to stay safe online.
Have an Emergency Plan
Each assisted living facility, like
Heathwood, develops detailed emergency plans to address a wide range of potential crises. Our staff is trained to handle life or death situations including medical emergencies. Our plans include essential information such as who to contact and inform for emergency services and a network of healthcare providers. We also have specific procedures for various emergencies, from medical crises to natural disasters.
It's equally important for long-distance family members to create their own emergency plans. This includes establishing clear communication channels, identifying potential support systems in the local area, and outlining steps to take in case of an emergency involving a loved one residing in the facility. By having both a facility-based and family-centered emergency plan, you can enhance preparedness and response efforts.
Be Supportive
Even if you aren’t your loved one’s primary caregiver, there are things you can do to make sure you are being supportive. First, ask your loved one if there’s anything specific you can do to better support them. Stay in regular contact with the assisted living facility by phone and/or email. Be sure to ask about how your loved one is doing and holding up, as they may offer a different perspective of your loved one’s condition.
Senior Living Options in Williamsville, NY & Penfield, NY
Since 1978, Heathwood Assisted Living has been committed to delivering exceptional senior living and caregiving services to its residents and their families. As long as a resident is here, it is our goal to make things as comfortable as possible. We tailor our services to the individual needs of the patient. As residents’ needs change, we can typically change the level of care to meet them, so no one is forced to move to another facility to get the care they need. Our compassionate staff members will ensure your loved one has everything they need daily, so you can relax a little bit as a long-distance caregiver. We always welcome visitors, so
contact us at your earliest convenience to schedule a tour of our
Williamsville or
Penfield facility!
